PHNOM PENH – Cambodia’s international trade surged to nearly $47 billion in the first nine months of 2025, marking a 14.8 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE) reported that this figure represents approximately 86 percent of the country’s total trade volume for the whole of 2024, driven by strong domestic demand and rising global orders.
From January to September 2025, Cambodia’s total trade value reached $46.99 billion, up from $40.94 billion in 2024. Exports accounted for $22.38 billion—an increase of 12.9 percent—while imports stood at $24.61 billion, rising 16.6 percent year-on-year. Despite the overall growth, the Kingdom recorded a trade deficit of $2.23 billion, compared to $1.27 billion during the same period last year.
Economists Highlight Positive Momentum
Hong Vanak, an economist at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said that the consistent trade performance demonstrates Cambodia’s resilience amid global economic challenges and ongoing border tensions with Thailand. “Even with external headwinds, Cambodia’s international trade continues to expand as more factories and enterprises begin operations across the country,” he said.
He attributed the growth to Cambodia’s stable political environment, favourable investment laws, skilled workforce, and improving infrastructure. “Preferential trade systems, international agreements, and access to diversified markets have made Cambodian goods more competitive,” Vanak added.
He also noted that new investments approved by the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) will further boost exports in the coming years. “As more companies set up manufacturing facilities, we can expect exports to increase steadily,” he said, emphasising that improved legal frameworks and infrastructure are helping to lower production costs and enhance competitiveness.
Business Leaders Optimistic About Continued Growth
Lim Heng, vice-president of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, echoed these sentiments, saying that the growth in international trade reflects investor confidence in the country’s economic trajectory. “Cambodia is moving forward with strong momentum,” he said. “New government policies, infrastructure development, and private sector efforts to attract both domestic and foreign investors are driving continuous progress.”
He added that Cambodia’s development strategy, backed by both the public and private sectors, is ensuring the country remains a competitive destination for investment and trade. “If there are no major disruptions in global politics or the economy, Cambodia’s export and import volumes will continue to rise,” Heng said.
As Cambodia deepens its integration into regional and global supply chains, experts predict that its export capacity will expand further, positioning the Kingdom as one of Southeast Asia’s emerging trade hubs.
Also read, Cambodia’s Exports Surge to $22.3 Billion in First Nine Months of 2025, Up 12.9%
