All contracts must be in writing if for more than one month. Failure to produce a written contract presumes an Undetermined Duration contract in favor of the employee.
In 2014, Cambodia’s economic landscape was rapidly evolving. With a surge in garment manufacturing, construction, and service industries, understanding the Kingdom’s labour regulations became more critical than ever. The , promulgated in 1997 (and largely unchanged in its core provisions by 2014), remained the supreme legal instrument governing employment relationships. Cambodian-labour-law-guide-english-2014
| Contract Type | Duration | Termination Notice (as of 2014) | |---|---|---| | | Open-ended | Minimum 1–3 months (depending on seniority) | | Fixed Duration (FDT) | Max 2 years (renewable once) | No notice – indemnity equal to remaining salary | | Seasonal/Task-based | For specific season or project | Same as FDT if terminated early | All contracts must be in writing if for more than one month
This guide provides general legal information and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and their application change over time. For specific cases, consult a qualified Cambodian labour lawyer or the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. Document prepared for reference use by HR professionals, factory managers, and legal researchers. Original law source: Law on Labor (1997), Kingdom of Cambodia, official Khmer version, English translation by ILO and MLVT (2002–2014 editions). With a surge in garment manufacturing, construction, and
While the original 2014 guide refers to the 1997 Labour Law (which remained the core legal framework in 2014), this article synthesizes the key provisions as they were understood and applied at that time, serving as a historical and practical reference for businesses, NGOs, and legal professionals working in Cambodia. A Comprehensive Reference for Employers, Employees, and Legal Practitioners
For any business operating in Cambodia today, reviewing the 2014 interpretations alongside subsequent amendments is essential. Compliance is not merely legal obligation; in Cambodia’s tight labour market, it is also the foundation of industrial peace and productivity.