Cambodia's new COVID crisis clips growth prospects

Analysts cut GDP forecasts as outbreaks force government to lock down capital

A view of an empty road near the Independence monument in Phnom Penh on Friday, during a 14-day citywide lockdown. © Reuters

SHAUN TURTON and BOPHA PHORN, Contributing Writers

April 19, 2021 18:02 JST

PHNOM PENH -- Festivities for the Khmer New Year have been subdued this year as Cambodia locked down its capital. While families are missing out on the celebrations, economic pain and uncertainty are a bigger concern for many.

"When Covid first hit, I lost maybe 70% of my income," So Saroeun, who sells clothes in a Phnom Penh market, told Nikkei Asia. "This time, I'm finished."