PHNOM PENH – Cambodia’s international trade saw a significant boost in the first seven months of this year, with total exports reaching $17.16 billion, according to a report from the General Department of Customs and Excise. This represents a robust 16.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Overall, the country’s international trade volume grew by 16.5% to more than $36.32 billion from January to July. Imports also saw a healthy increase, rising by 16.7% to $19.15 billion during the same period.
The United States remained the top destination for Cambodian goods, importing a total of $6.92 billion. Vietnam was the second-largest market, with imports valued at $2.43 billion.
The export growth was fueled by strong performance in several key sectors. The traditional pillars of garments, footwear, and travel goods continued to perform well. Emerging industries also contributed significantly, including bicycles, car tires, and solar panels.
Additionally, agricultural products played a crucial role in the country’s export success. These included rice, rubber, cassava, bananas, mangoes, and longans.
The garment, footwear, and travel goods industry remains the largest source of foreign exchange for Cambodia. A recent report from the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training noted that the sector comprises approximately 1,538 factories and branches, employing about 913,000 workers. The majority of these workers are women.
On the import side, China maintained its position as Cambodia’s largest supplier. Imports from China totaled $10 billion during the first seven months of 2025, a substantial increase of 30.5% from the previous year.
Major imported goods included a range of products essential for both industry and consumers, such as petroleum, raw materials for the garment and footwear sectors, vehicles, machinery, electronic appliances, and consumer products.