Cambodian consumers are switching to local products and are seeking alternatives to Thai goods since armed clashes broke out between the two countries’ armies on July 24 along their disputed border.
In Phnom Penh, capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, local coffee shops have been busy with customers, in sharp contrast to empty Thai coffeehouses which used to be popular in the capital.
In recent years, Thai brands have expanded rapidly in Cambodia, with over 180 gas stations, more than 250 coffee shops, and over 100 convenience stores and restaurants owned by Thai companies. They have all seen a sharp decline in consumers recently.
Many Cambodian consumers said that they are more inclined to choose locally-made products due to the border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand.
"I want to support our Cambodian products and I hope our Cambodian products will be more widely known," said one consumer.
Cambodian retailers and importers said that they have also felt the changes in consumer sentiment and will make corresponding adjustments to support local products and brands.
"In the past, customers were looking for Thai products, but now they are starting to look for Cambodian products and support our Cambodian products," said a supermarket worker.
Following a special meeting hosted by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on July 28, Cambodia and Thailand agreed on an immediate and unconditional ceasefire effective from midnight that day, ending days of border fighting.
Cambodian consumers seek alternatives to Thai products as border tensions escalate
Cambodian consumers seek alternatives to Thai products as border tensions escalate
Cambodian consumers seek alternatives to Thai products as border tensions escalate
