xinhua

 

Cambodia’s export sector has continued its strong upward trajectory this year, with new customs data showing a sharp rise in overseas shipments despite a widening trade deficit.

 

According to the General Department of Customs and Excise, the country exported $27.37 billion worth of goods in the first 11 months of 2025 — a 14% increase compared with the same period last year. The United States, Vietnam, China, Japan and Canada remained the top destinations for Cambodian products.

 

Imports grew even faster, climbing 18% to $30.65 billion, reflecting rising demand for raw materials and capital goods as the country’s manufacturing base expands.

 

The latest figures build on a broader multi‑year trend. Cambodia’s exports reached $26.19 billion in 2024, up 15.7% from $22.64 billion in 2023. UN COMTRADE data places total exports at $26.66 billion in 2024, with the United States accounting for nearly $10 billion of that total.

 

Officials say the country’s trade performance is being propelled by a wave of regional and bilateral free trade agreements. Penn Sovicheat, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, said the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and Cambodia’s FTAs with China, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates have “catalysed long‑term and sustainable trade growth” and boosted foreign investment.

 

Economists note that Cambodia’s export base remains heavily concentrated in garments, footwear and travel goods, though newer sectors — including tyres, bicycles and electronics assembly — have expanded rapidly in recent years. Tyre exports in particular surged in 2024, helping lift overall export earnings.

 

Despite the strong export performance, Cambodia continues to run a sizeable trade deficit. The country imported $28.54 billion worth of goods in 2024, an 18% rise year‑on‑year, and monthly trade balance data for 2025 shows persistent deficits throughout the year.

 

Still, analysts say the country’s long‑term outlook remains positive, provided global demand holds steady and investment inflows continue. With multiple FTAs now in force and more under negotiation, Cambodia is positioning itself as a competitive manufacturing hub within Southeast Asia.

 

 

-2025-12-11

Meanwhile in Thailand...