Phnom Penh, Cambodia — Trade between Cambodia and Thailand showed a significant decline in January 2026, with Cambodian imports from Thailand plunging nearly 50%, official customs data indicate. The decrease highlights shifts in bilateral commerce that coincide with ongoing border tensions and changes in logistical routes.
According to figures from the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE), Cambodia’s imports from Thailand totaled approximately USD 151 million in January, down sharply from around USD 297 million in the same month the previous year — representing a 49.3% year-on-year drop. Cambodian exports to Thailand also declined, reaching about USD 58 million, a 19.6% decrease compared with January 2025.
Overall bilateral trade for January 2026 was recorded at roughly USD 209 million, reflecting a 43.5% year-on-year contraction. Commerce officials attributed the downturn in cross-border movement to the closure of several land border crossings in 2025, which has altered supply chain routes and shifted many tradelinks to sea transport and non-contiguous logistics channels.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce noted that while the Cambodia–Thailand trade corridor has weakened, broader international trade performance for Cambodia remains comparatively healthy, supported by strong export demand in other markets and diversified supply lines. In 2025, Cambodia’s overall trade volume expanded significantly, driven by increased exports and resilient access to global markets.
Despite the slump in Thai imports, key sectors such as garment production, agricultural commodities, and manufacturing goods continued to form the bulk of Cambodia’s trade with global partners. Trade data suggest that while relations with Thailand remain economically important, Cambodia’s trade portfolio is becoming more geographically diverse, driven by demand from the United States, China, and ASEAN neighbours.
Economists say that the sharp drop in January’s figures underscores the impact of logistics and political developments on bilateral trade flows, even as Cambodia’s overall external trade outlook remains positive going into 2026. Policy efforts to stabilise border infrastructure and enhance regional connectivity are expected to play a role in future trade dynamics.
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