A beach food vendor was told by Sihanoukville authorities to find a new location and stop trading on the beach. The report said the move appeared linked to the vendor taking advantage of visitors by overcharging during the 2026 New Year celebrations in Preah Sihanouk province. In a January 2, 2026 Facebook post, Sihanoukville Mayor Sar Kakada wrote: “You have already been warned! Do not take advantage of tourists by overcharging, but you still did! Do not affect the good vendors; please find a new place.”
After the mayor’s social media post, many residents welcomed the authorities’ action against holiday overcharging. One wrote: “I support you! Some vendors are really difficult to communicate and reach an understanding with.” Another said: “I suggest we stop relying on warnings. Whenever there is a violation, act according to the rules. Too much leniency makes people lose their fear.”
In November 2025, Sihanoukville authorities had also expelled a beach food vendor and barred further trading there for taking advantage of tourists by overcharging. Whenever events or major national holidays take place, city authorities regularly instruct businesses not to raise accommodation, food and other service prices excessively, in order to strengthen the quality of tourism products.
By: Nget Pisant
