The global movement to ban asbestos has gained another victory—this time in Eastern Europe. In November 2024, the Republic of Moldova officially banned all forms of asbestos, joining 72 other countries and territories in taking a decisive stand against this deadly material. The ban, enacted through Moldova’s Industrial Emissions Act, prohibits the use of all six types of asbestos, including chrysotile, as well as any materials containing asbestos.
This decision is a crucial step in the ongoing international push to eliminate asbestos-related diseases, which claim over 200,000 lives each year. Moldova’s ban sends a strong message to nations still permitting asbestos use: a safer future is possible—and necessary.
Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister seeks new direction for the construction sector
Moldova’s ban comes at a time when other countries are also accelerating efforts to eliminate asbestos. In Cambodia, high-level government officials are recognising the urgent need for action.
At a January 2025 workshop in Phnom Penh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction, Say Samal, called for a new direction in Cambodia’s construction sector. While asbestos has been widely used in Cambodia for decades, public awareness of its severe health risks remains low. However, the Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged that Cambodia has reached a turning point: viable, safer alternatives are now available.
Cambodia took a major step in 2023 when the Royal Government announced its commitment to phase out the import and use of asbestos. This transition is being supported by Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA and the Australian Government through agencies like the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency (ASEA), the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), and the Australian Embassy in Cambodia.
