Cambodia exported more than 7.8 million tonnes of agricultural products in the first six months of 2025, marking a significant 27.66 percent increase compared to the same period last year. According to a report from the General Department of Agriculture under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), these exports generated over US$2.87 billion in revenue, underscoring the sector’s growing strength and international competitiveness.
Strong Performance Across Key Product Segments
The export figures included approximately 4.2 million tonnes of non-rice agricultural products, 3.1 million tonnes of paddy rice, and 380,000 tonnes of milled rice. Non-rice products brought in more than US$1.926 billion, while paddy rice earned US$638 million and milled rice generated over US$307 million in export revenue.
This performance reflects the growing diversity and value of Cambodian agricultural goods, particularly as demand for processed and value-added products increases in regional and global markets.
Major Export Destinations
China, Vietnam, and Thailand were identified as the top destinations for Cambodia’s agricultural exports during this period. These countries continue to play a crucial role in absorbing the Kingdom’s growing agricultural output. Cambodia’s ability to meet the quality, quantity, and safety standards of these demanding markets highlights the progress being made in strengthening supply chains and export infrastructure.
Shift to Formal Export Channels
A key development noted in the report was the increasing reliance on formal export mechanisms. H.E. Khim Finan, Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson for the MAFF, stated that most agricultural exports are now conducted through official channels, marking a departure from the informal methods that were once common.
“These results reflect the success of opening new markets and boosting competitiveness, which has helped agricultural products meet export-quality standards,” he said.
The formalization of export routes has also allowed for better data tracking, enhanced quality assurance, and improved transparency—all of which are vital for long-term growth in international trade.
Government Strategy for Agricultural Transformation
In support of this progress, the Royal Government of Cambodia has launched a comprehensive strategic policy aimed at transforming agriculture from subsistence-level production to a commercially viable sector. The goal is to raise farmers’ incomes by encouraging the development of value-added products and improving productivity across the board.
As part of this initiative, hundreds of agricultural officials have been deployed to communes across the country. These officials are working directly with farmers to offer technical assistance, promote the formation of agricultural cooperatives, strengthen supply chains, and advise on cost-saving measures.
This hands-on approach is intended to empower rural communities, enhance production efficiency, and better integrate Cambodian agriculture into regional and global markets.
Looking Ahead
The agricultural export performance in the first half of 2025 signals a promising future for Cambodia’s farming sector. With increasing volumes, rising revenues, and growing diversification in product categories, the Kingdom is on a solid path toward becoming a more prominent player in the international agricultural market.
Continued investment in human resources, infrastructure, and market access is expected to accelerate this growth further. If current trends continue, Cambodia is likely to close the year with record-breaking figures that not only boost national income but also improve the livelihoods of millions of farmers across the country.
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