According to local Cambodian news publication the Phnom Penh Post, Heng Sophannarith, NSSF deputy director-general, announced plans to phase out the use of flatbed trucks for Cambodia garment workers during an educational outreach programme for garment workers in the Kandal province.

The move is said to be aimed at reducing Cambodia's traffic accident rates as he stressed strengthening occupational safety and health education is a top priority for the NSSF.

The event also saw National Police deputy chief Chev Hak echo the importance of traffic safety urging both workers and truck drivers to respect traffic laws. He called on drivers transporting workers to exercise utmost caution and emphasised their responsibility for the lives of dozens of passengers.

Sophannarith added: "The NSSF will update a list of drivers who transport workers and study the feasibility of converting the trucks which are currently used as buses and vans. This may be administered by a new company or entity by 2027.

"Replacing the trucks will improve the well-being of workers and reduce the rate of road accidents."

The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training has launched a new strategic plan for 2024-2028, aimed at raising public awareness, strengthening law enforcement on social security, and ultimately reducing occupational accidents.

Factory owners in Kandal were also urged by the provincial deputy governor to allow their employees time to attend educational programmes focused on improving road safety and working conditions.

In April it was reported that US apparel imports surged during February with a healthy return to growth from Bangladesh and a 90% increase in shipment volume coming from Cambodia.