PHNOM PENH: Despite ongoing crises in the global economy, Cambodia’s international trade has increased.
In the first quarter of 2026, total trade reached nearly US$17 billion, an increase of almost 20 per cent over the same period in 2025, according to the General Department of Customs and Excise.
An April 10 report showed that from January to March, Cambodian international trade totalled US$16.93 billion, up 17.1 per cent from the US$14.45 billion recorded in Q1 2025.
Exports were US$8.09 billion, up 17.7 per cent, while imports totalled US$8.84 billion, up 16.7 per cent.
The Kingdom’s main trading partners include the US, China, Vietnam and Japan.
Based on these figures, Cambodia recorded a trade deficit of approximately US$741 million in Q1 2026, compared to US$697.83 million in the same period last year.
Hong Vanak, an economist at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said that despite continued global economic challenges and the closure of land border crossings with Thailand, the Kingdom’s international trade remains resilient.
He added that this positive trend is expected to continue, as Cambodia has seen increasing investment inflows since 2024.
“Favourable domestic conditions and rising overseas demand have led to more factories and enterprises operating in Cambodia. As foreign orders increase, this also helps create jobs, boost household incomes and generate tax revenue for the government,” he noted. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
