Agriculture is a key pillar of Cambodia’s economy. The country’s agricultural exports have seen impressive growth, with increasing volumes, expanding markets, and new trade agreements boosting the sector. Now, take a closer look at Cambodia Agricultural Export Growth below!
Rising Export Revenue and Market Expansion
In 2023, Cambodia’s agricultural exports generated $4.3 billion, with nearly 8.45 million tons of products shipped to 75 countries. Despite a 1.9% decline in volume, the sector remained a major revenue source. By 2024, exports surged to 11.7 million tons, a 39% increase from the previous year. This rapid growth signals strong international demand and improving production capacity.
The number of importing countries expanded from 75 to 94, reflecting Cambodia’s growing market access and diversification strategy. Key new markets include Saudi Arabia, India, and Japan, which have shown increasing interest in Cambodian rice and organic produce. This expansion reduces reliance on any single market, mitigating risks from geopolitical tensions or trade disruptions. For example, while China remains the largest buyer of Cambodian agricultural goods, accounting for 40% of exports, the rise of alternative markets like the UAE and South Korea provides crucial balance.
Cambodia Agricultural Export Growth and The Economic Role
Agriculture is a cornerstone of Cambodia’s economy, supporting one-third of the workforce and contributing 22% of GDP in 2024. The sector’s growth has been instrumental in reducing rural poverty, with initiatives like the Cambodia Agricultural Sector Development Program improving smallholder farmers’ access to technology and financing. As export volumes rise, the sector’s economic impact is expected to deepen, particularly in regions like Battambang and Kampong Thom, where farming dominates local livelihoods.
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Key Agricultural Products Driving Growth
Cambodia exports a diverse range of agricultural goods. Major exports include:
Rice – Over 5 million tons were exported in 2024, making it a leading product.
Rubber – A vital commodity with growing demand in manufacturing.
Cassava, Corn, and Mangoes – High-value crops with strong export potential.
Bananas – An increasingly important export to Asian markets.
Emerging products like peppercorns and organic cashews are also gaining traction, supported by certifications like Fair Trade and GlobalG.A.P. This diversification helps Cambodia remain competitive and reduces the risk of relying too heavily on a single product.
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New Trade Agreements Fuel Cambodia Agricultural Export Growth
The future of Cambodia agricultural export growth looks promising, thanks to key trade deals. Agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and bilateral trade deals with China, South Korea, and the UAE are opening new opportunities. These agreements lower tariffs and improve market access, allowing Cambodian farmers to compete globally.
China remains one of Cambodia’s top agricultural buyers, while demand from the Middle East and South Korea is rising. With improved logistics and reduced trade barriers, Cambodian agricultural exports are set to expand even further.
Challenges and Future Outlook for Cambodia Agricultural Export Growth
Despite strong growth, challenges remain. Cambodia needs to:
Improve agricultural technology and processing facilities.
Enhance infrastructure for storage and transport.
Ensure sustainable farming practices to maintain long-term productivity.
If these areas are addressed, Cambodia’s agricultural sector will continue its impressive upward trajectory. With strong government support, growing international demand, and expanding trade partnerships, the future of Cambodia Agricultural Export Growth looks bright.