The Cambodian government has shut down the Doung border crossing in Battambang province. The closure, effective immediately, has led to significant congestion, with many trucks loaded with produce stranded at the border.

The decision was made in response to what Cambodia described as “unilateral closures of border checkpoints by the Thai military”.

Minister of Interior spokesperson Touch Sokhak stated that the crossing will remain closed until Thailand restores full access to all previously operational border points.

“We’ve known about this issue for a long time, but we avoided disrupting people’s livelihoods,” said Senate president Hun Sen on social media.

“Now, it’s time to act,” he added.

The government has outlined three retaliatory measures against Thailand. It has halted the purchases of Thai internet services, banned Thai films from being screened on Cambodian television stations and in cinemas, and closed the Doung crossing, which has directly affected Thai and Cambodian farmers.

Hun Sen urged Thai farmers to direct their protests at their own military, blaming Thailand’s actions for the escalating trade dispute.

Cambodia’s swift response, implemented in less than 12 hours, signalled a firm stance in the ongoing border tensions, with potentially serious ripple effects on regional trade. Thai authorities have yet to comment on the situation.