PHNOM PENH – Bilateral trade between Cambodia and the United States has surged to record levels in the first quarter of 2026, marking a nearly 40% increase compared to the same period last year. Latest data from the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE) highlights a period of unprecedented growth, driven by a rebound in manufacturing and strengthening diplomatic ties.
Quarterly Performance: By the Numbers
From January to March 2026, the total trade volume between the two nations reached $3.48 billion, a significant jump from the $2.5 billion recorded in Q1 2025.
The breakdown of the figures reveals a robust performance across both directions of trade:
- Cambodian Exports to the U.S.: Valued at $3.36 billion, representing a 38.4% increase.
- U.S. Imports to Cambodia: Soared by 67.9%, totaling $126.08 million.
- Trade Surplus: Cambodia’s surplus with the U.S. widened to $3.23 billion, up from $2.35 billion in the previous year.
Strengthening Relations and Diversification
Lim Heng, vice-president of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, attributes this momentum to improving political and economic relations. “As political relations between the two countries continue to improve, trade activities are expected to gain further momentum,” Heng noted.
While traditional “Big Four” exports—garments, footwear, travel goods, and bicycles—remain the backbone of Cambodia’s shipments, the Kingdom is poised for diversification. The influx of new investment projects approved by Cambodian authorities suggests that the range of products destined for the U.S. market will soon expand into higher-value sectors.
Conversely, Cambodian demand for American-made goods is shifting toward high-end consumer and industrial products, including:
- Vehicles and electronic products
- Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
- Consumer staples and food industry residues
A Look Back at 2025
The Q1 2026 surge follows a stellar performance in 2025, where total bilateral trade hit $13.14 billion, a 29.24% increase over 2024. During that year, Cambodia exported $12.73 billion to the U.S., while the Ministry of Commerce noted a steady rise in imports of specialized American goods.
