IMF Economic Outlook: The IMF projects Cambodia’s growth will slow to 3% in 2026 from 5.3% in 2025, citing higher energy costs, weaker tourism and remittances, and slowing garment exports, while warning that trade uncertainty and persistent scam activity could hit investment and financial stability. Royal Health Update: King Norodom Sihamoni and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath returned safely to Cambodia after routine medical checkups in Beijing. Preah Vihear Tensions: CMAC says damage to Preah Vihear Temple was planned and strategic, as ICC-Preah Vihear co-chairs reaffirm support for conservation and restoration. Cambodia–Thailand Border Row: Cambodia rejected Thai claims at the UN, urging the dispute be handled through the Joint Boundary Commission rather than unilateral actions. Minimum Wage Decision: Cambodia set the 2027 garment/textile/footwear minimum wage at $212 per month, effective Jan 1, 2027, after tripartite talks and a final approval by Prime Minister Hun Manet. Social Protection Push: Cambodia launched Social Protection Week 2026 and unveiled an emergency response action plan for 2026–2030. Digital Skills for Youth: Experts urged Cambodian youth to build digital, AI, and cybersecurity skills as cybercrime risks rise. Garment Sector and Jobs: The wage rise comes as the garment sector remains Cambodia’s biggest foreign-currency earner, employing about 1.1 million workers. Regional Diplomacy: Cambodia is set to welcome Vietnam’s new Prime Minister on Oct. 9–10, with talks also touching security and development. Flooding Crisis: Severe flooding in Battambang has affected over 21,000 families, submerging homes, roads, and large areas of rice fields.