Cambodia Launches Innovative HIV Prevention Drug, Cabotegravir

PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA — On June 27, 2025, the Cambodian Ministry of Health officially introduced Cabotegravir, an injectable medication designed for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV infections. This significant development positions Cambodia as the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to offer Cabotegravir as part of a comprehensive HIV prevention strategy, which aims to provide multiple options for protection against the virus.

The injectable drug, administered every two months, is particularly aimed at high-risk groups, including female sex workers, transgender individuals, men who have sex with men, and intravenous drug users. According to Youk Sambath, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Health, the rollout of Cabotegravir represents a pivotal advancement in the nation's efforts to combat HIV. “This new option empowers individuals at risk with a more effective means of prevention,” Sambath stated during the launch event.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has endorsed the use of Cabotegravir, emphasizing its up to 95% effectiveness in preventing HIV transmission. Patricia Ongpin, UNAIDS Country Director for Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia, hailed the launch as a “historic milestone” in Cambodia’s ongoing response to the HIV epidemic. “UNAIDS is thrilled to support the Cambodian government and its partners in this innovative endeavor, which will provide more choices and freedom to those at risk,” Ongpin remarked.

In 2024, the National AIDS Authority reported approximately 76,000 individuals living with HIV in Cambodia, with the prevalence among the general population at 0.5%. The authority noted that new infections predominantly occur among young men aged 15–24, transgender individuals, and entertainment workers. Recent statistics indicate a decline in new HIV infections by 45% since 2010, a rate significantly exceeding the global average.

The introduction of Cabotegravir comes alongside other innovative measures, such as the upcoming Dapivirine Vaginal Ring (DVR), which is specifically designed for women. The Cambodian government has committed to meeting the global 95-95-95 strategy goals for HIV/AIDS, which aim for 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of those diagnosed to receive treatment, and 95% of those treated to achieve viral suppression. Currently, 92% of individuals living with HIV in Cambodia are aware of their status, and over 98% of those on treatment have reached viral suppression.

As Cambodia continues to strengthen its commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS, the recent cooperation agreement signed on June 24, 2025, between Senior Minister Ieng Mouly and UNAIDS, includes a pledged support of $100,000 to bolster prevention efforts. This collaboration underlines Cambodia’s leadership in public health innovation and its proactive approach to addressing the HIV epidemic within the region.

In conclusion, the introduction of Cabotegravir and the forthcoming DVR highlight Cambodia’s innovative strategies to enhance HIV prevention, providing hope and a broader range of options for those at risk. As the nation progresses towards its health goals, these advancements signify a critical turning point in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Cambodia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.