Cambodia‑ASEAN trade jumps 20.7% in 2026

PHNOM PENH – Cambodia’s trade with ASEAN partners surged in the first seven months of 2026, climbing 20.7% year‑on‑year to $11.68 billion, according to figures released by the Ministry of Commerce.

Exports to the bloc edged up slightly to $3.54 billion, while imports soared 32.6% to $8.14 billion. Regional trade now accounts for more than a quarter of Cambodia’s global trade volume, which reached $45.48 billion between January and July.

Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia remain the kingdom’s top trading partners. Key exports include garments, footwear, travel goods, solar panels, tyres, electronics and agricultural products such as rice, cashew nuts, cassava and tropical fruits.

Analysts say the growth reflects deeper regional integration. Thong Mengdavid of the Cambodia University of Technology and Science pointed to stronger supply chains and frameworks like the ASEAN Economic Community and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). “Looking ahead, trade with ASEAN is expected to sustain double‑digit growth,” he noted, citing rising demand and expanding manufacturing networks.

Trade with RCEP members also rose sharply, up nearly 23% to $28.27 billion. Exports reached $6.41 billion, while imports climbed to $21.85 billion. China, Vietnam, Singapore and Japan were Cambodia’s largest partners within the bloc.

Commerce ministry spokesman Penn Sovicheat said RCEP’s preferential tariffs have expanded market access for Cambodian goods, creating new opportunities beyond traditional partners. The ministry has also launched a Free Trade Agreement Portal to help local businesses tap into these benefits.

With regional demand strengthening and supply chains tightening, Cambodia’s trade outlook remains buoyant. The challenge will be balancing rising imports with sustainable export growth.

-2026-08-18