Cambodian economy suffers as Thai conflict blights bilateral trade

One year after fighting started, closed border leaves millions looking for alternative work

Patriotic signage in support of the Cambodian government and military leadership sits atop empty market stalls at Poipet's New Market. (Photo by Ananth Baliga)

POIPET, Cambodia -- Until last year, Nget Nhean was employed in Poipet, a Cambodian city on the border with Thailand, helping migrant workers, traders and transporters apply for short-term permits and passports to work in the neighboring nation. But after the border was closed in June 2025 over rising political tensions that erupted into military clashes, Nget Nhean was left unemployed.