Cambodia has bowed to pressure from international donors who contribute to the country’s economy and passed a law aimed at cracking down on illegal logging.
Agriculture minister Chan Sa-run told parliament the law will contribute to the protection and sustainable development of the country’s natural resources, so they can be passed on to the next generation.
Under the law, illegal logging is punishable by 5-10 years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of more than US$25,000.
Cambodia’s forests have been decimated by decades of illegal activity, and environmentalists say the current rate of logging far exceeds the sustainable level.
Last month, foreign donors promised Cambodia US$635m in aid and loans for the coming year, but urged stronger action on a number of key areas including fighting corruption, reforming the judiciary and safeguarding the environment.
Environmental activists are waiting to see if the new law can be enforced effectively.
