United States Officially Removes Cambodia from Arms Export Blacklist

Washington, D.C. – February 5, 2026 – The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has issued a final rule officially removing Cambodia from Country Group D:5, a designation that imposed strict restrictions on exports of weapons and related technologies.

This decision, published in the Federal Register, is based on the Secretary of State’s assessment recognizing Cambodia’s efforts toward peace and security, its enhanced defense cooperation with the United States, and progress in combating transnational crime.

Historical context of the embargo

Imposed in December 2021 due to concerns over Cambodia’s military cooperation with China, human rights, and corruption, the embargo had placed Cambodia on the D:5 list under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), effectively banning most arms exports.

The White House announced its removal on October 26, 2025, followed by a final rule from the State Department in November amending the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to delist Cambodia from proscribed countries.

This change reflects a strategic turnaround under the Trump administration, spurred by presidential mediation in a border ceasefire agreement with Thailand and the resumption of bilateral military exercises such as Angkor Sentinel.

Technical details of the measure

The new rule removes the “X” designation attached to Cambodia’s name in Supplement No. 1 to Part 740 of the EAR, aligning EAR and ITAR regulations to avoid confusion among exporters.

However, Cambodia remains in Country Group D:1 for national security reasons, which still requires export licenses for military-related technologies under Sections 744.21 and 744.22 of the EAR. Authorization requests will now be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, potentially easing trade flows.

Economic reactions and outlook

Casey Barnett, President of AmCham Cambodia, welcomed this step as a “strong symbol of American confidence” in Cambodia, paving the way for access to advanced aviation and defense technologies.

While visiting Singapore, Barnett met with U.S. firms to promote their products in support of Cambodia’s security and economic development. Analysts anticipate streamlined procedures and a possible increase of around 100 license applications per year, stimulating the civil technology and aviation sectors.

Geopolitical implications

This downgrading signifies renewed bilateral alignment despite ongoing U.S.-China tensions surrounding the Ream Naval Base and forms part of deeper cooperation against organized crime.

For Cambodia, a strategic partner in Southeast Asia, it reinforces ties with Washington while maintaining security safeguards, fostering greater integration into U.S. technological supply chains.