Cambodia’s ASEAN Trade Nears $15B in 2025

SoKunthea KT

Cambodia’s trade with ASEAN partners has climbed to nearly $15 billion in the first eleven months of 2025, underscoring the country’s deepening integration into the regional economy and its growing reliance on exports.

According to figures released by the Ministry of Commerce, total trade with the bloc reached $14.94 billion between January and November, a 3.76 percent increase compared with the same period last year. Exports rose sharply to $5.13 billion, up almost 9 percent, while imports edged up just over 1 percent to $9.8 billion. ASEAN now accounts for more than a quarter of Cambodia’s overall trade volume of $59.13 billion.

Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia remain Cambodia’s largest trading partners within the grouping. Key exports include garments, footwear, travel goods, bicycles, automotive parts and solar panels, alongside agricultural staples such as rice, cashew nuts, rubber latex and bananas.

Business leaders say the figures reflect a positive shift in Cambodia’s trade dynamics. Lor Vichet, Vice-President of the Cambodia Chinese Commerce Association, noted that the manufacturing sector continues to drive exports, supported by foreign investment, political stability and investor-friendly laws. He stressed, however, that further reforms are needed to boost competitiveness, diversify exports and strengthen infrastructure, particularly at seaports.

Lim Heng, Vice-President of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the role of free trade agreements such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership in opening new markets and attracting investment. He said these frameworks are helping Cambodian businesses expand beyond traditional exports into higher-value products like electronics and solar panels.

To support this momentum, the Ministry of Commerce has launched a new Free Trade Agreement Portal, funded by Australian Aid, to provide businesses with easier access to trade-related information and help them capitalise on regional opportunities.

As Cambodia’s exports continue to rise, officials and business leaders agree that sustaining growth will depend on reforms that enhance productivity, reduce bureaucracy and build a stronger national brand.

-2025-12-31