Cambodia apparel sector faces clean energy pressure as brands demand low carbon supply chains

A new report from EnergyLab Asia warns that Cambodia's garment industry, which employs nearly one million workers, risks losing sourcing orders if it does not accelerate access to verified renewable electricity. Global fashion brands are increasingly setting science based climate targets and requiring emissions reductions from suppliers. The report argues that clean energy is becoming a business necessity, not just an environmental issue, for export oriented manufacturing hubs. Competing countries in Asia are already expanding solar, wind, and other clean energy investments to meet buyer expectations. Cambodia could position itself as a low carbon sourcing destination by reforming policies that allow manufacturers to buy verified renewable power at scale. Delayed action may threaten jobs and export growth as brands shift orders toward cleaner supply chains.