Cambodia’s cashew industry could see a significant boost in revenue if it secures direct export channels to the Chinese market, according to Silot Uon, chairman of the Cashew Nut Association of Cambodia (CAC). Unofficial data shows that raw cashew exports generated approximately USD 1.4 billion in the first eight months of 2025.
On September 8, Uon highlighted that Cambodia’s cashew sector still holds untapped potential. He stressed the importance of diversifying export markets, especially by targeting China, one of the largest consumers of cashews globally.
“Due to limited financial resources, storage capacity, and processing factories, Cambodia currently exports tens of thousands of tonnes of raw cashews annually to neighbouring countries, mainly Vietnam. This transit results in a loss of potential income,” Uon explained.
He noted that direct exports to key markets would bring numerous benefits, including higher revenues and price stability for local farmers. “China has high potential as a market for raw cashews. This is an excellent opportunity for Cambodia to reduce reliance on a single buyer. At CAC, we are committed to facilitating partnerships and supporting local traders to benefit from the rising demand in China,” he added.
According to unofficial figures, Cambodia exported around 941,000 tonnes of raw cashews between January and August 2025, earning an estimated USD 1.4 billion. Only a small fraction of this volume currently goes to China.
“We aim to change this model by encouraging direct exports to Chinese economic zones such as Yingkou and Nanning, which are major cashew processing hubs. Direct shipments would add value, stabilise farmer incomes, and cement Cambodia’s role as a top supplier of premium-quality cashews,” Uon said.
The push aligns with recent government initiatives. Hul Siengheng, undersecretary of state at the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, led a Cambodian delegation to the Global Industry Conference in Shenyang, China, to strengthen cooperation in technology, agriculture, and the cashew industry.
During the visit, Cambodian officials met with Wang Li, general manager of the Yingkou Free Trade Zone, who expressed strong interest in directly importing large volumes of Cambodian cashews to meet rising demand in northeastern China, where cashews are increasingly popular in local cuisine.
Beyond China, Cambodia is also exploring opportunities in the European market. However, Uon acknowledged that exports to the EU face challenges. “The EU prefers W320-grade cashews, which are smaller and cheaper, while Cambodia mainly produces W180-grade, which are larger and more expensive. On top of this, strict food safety and certification standards make the EU a more difficult market to enter,” he said.
Industry leaders believe that with direct access to China and continued diversification, Cambodia’s cashew sector could become a stronger contributor to the national economy in the years ahead.
Also read, Cambodian Cashews Enter Japan’s Market Through Mirarth Partnership
