Cambodia turns to Singapore, Malaysia for fuel as Vietnam, China restrict supplies
Why it matters: Regional fuel shortages could destabilize ASEAN economies and intensify geopolitical tensions.
- Cambodia is boosting imports from Singapore and Malaysia to offset shortages caused by Vietnam and China export restrictions.
- Vietnam and China have limited petroleum exports until at least the end of March to avert domestic shortages, prompting a regional supply shock.
- Thailand also halted fuel exports after an armed clash with Cambodia, further tightening the market.
- Renewable energy expansion has helped keep Cambodia’s overall fuel imports near 2022 levels, but the country still holds less than a month of diesel, jet fuel, LPG and petrol.
- Kpler data shows Singapore/Malaysia shipments up 25% versus last year but 40% lower than the last half of February, underscoring volatility.
- ASEAN leaders are being urged to fast‑track an integrated power grid to boost resilience against such disruptions.
With no refinery and under a month of fuel reserves, Cambodia is scrambling for diesel and gasoline as Vietnam and China curb exports amid Middle‑East tensions, turning to Singapore and Malaysia while renewable growth offers only a thin cushion; the crisis highlights ASEAN’s energy fragility and the strategic stakes of regional supply chains.
