Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet has unveiled a plan to streamline government operations by cutting down three general departments and 30 departments across various ministries and state agencies. This move is part of an ongoing initiative aimed at reforming public administration. Speaking at the opening of the General Department of Taxation’s new headquarters, Hun Manet emphasized that the overhaul is designed to boost efficiency, decrease public expenditures, and align government institutions with the needs of a fast-evolving digital landscape.
The decision to restructure was influenced by evaluations conducted on 16 ministries and institutions. Hun Manet stated the primary goals are to enhance the performance of institutions, improve human resource management, and make optimal use of state resources. He stressed that the restructuring effort is targeted at modernizing government functions, not for political gains.
As the government pushes for modernization, several ministries and agencies have launched specialized units that focus on digital systems and artificial intelligence. These units are part of Cambodia’s strategy to embrace digital transformation, a key factor in its reform agenda. Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many highlighted that the government’s strategy is centered on reinforcing existing frameworks rather than expanding them. He pointed out that the Ministry of Public Service and 12 other entities have already managed to reduce departments and offices, maintaining staffing levels while increasing employee responsibilities to drive productivity.
Despite these efforts, some critics remain doubtful about the speed and effectiveness of the reforms. Critics suggest that for administrative reform to be truly impactful, reductions should begin at the highest levels of government and state institutions, which would lead to more significant savings and efficiency. However, the restructuring effort is seen as part of Cambodia’s bigger picture of modernizing public administration, improving governance, and ensuring that government operations are prepared for future economic and technological shifts.