The Asian Development Bank and the government of Cambodia are exploring initiatives to support tuk-tuk drivers in transitioning to electric vehicles, as rising fuel and LPG prices, driven by global geopolitical tensions, put pressure on transport operators.
The initiative was discussed between Cambodia’s Minister of Mines and Energy and ADB representatives, focusing on both short-term support for drivers and long-term strategies for sustainable mobility. Tuk-tuk drivers have been identified as a priority group under the government’s broader energy transition agenda.
The discussions also covered wider efforts to strengthen Cambodia’s energy sector, including expanding renewable energy financing, enhancing infrastructure, and improving system resilience. Authorities are encouraging domestic banks to increase investment in green energy projects to retain economic benefits within the country and support job creation.
In addition, the ADB will provide technical assistance to develop certification systems for renewable energy use in Cambodia’s textile and manufacturing sectors. This is expected to improve export competitiveness by demonstrating compliance with sustainability standards in global markets. Also, Cambodia already generates more than 60 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources, positioning the country to accelerate its transition toward cleaner transport and energy systems.