Phnom Penh, Cambodia – China has consistently maintained its position as Cambodia’s largest trade and investment partner. According to the Directorate General of Customs and Excise of Cambodia (GDCE), the bilateral trade volume between Cambodia and China reached an impressive $1.904 billion in January, marking a substantial 22.5% increase compared to January of the previous year (2025).
The trade statistics recorded by the GDCE for the first month of 2026 indicate that Cambodian exports to China reached $164 million, a significant increase of 59.3%. Concurrently, imports from China also saw a rise of nearly 20%. The primary goods exported by Cambodia to the Chinese market are predominantly agricultural and processed products. These include staples such as rice, fresh and processed fruits like yellow bananas and mangoes, cassava (both sliced and powdered forms), cashew nuts, natural rubber, as well as manufactured goods like furniture, jewelry, and various textile products. Conversely, Cambodia’s imports from China primarily consist of materials and supplies for its burgeoning textile and construction sectors.
Beyond trade relations, China also stands as Cambodia’s foremost investment partner. Data from the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) reveals that in January, Cambodia attracted approximately $752 million in investment capital. Of this total, Chinese investors contributed a substantial $270 million, accounting for 35.90% of the overall foreign direct investment during the month.
These robust economic benefits derived from the alliance with China are complemented by significant geopolitical advantages for Cambodia. These achievements underscore the strong and enduring relationship between the governments of both nations, particularly through their comprehensive strategic partnership, which has flourished over the past 15 years.
For the entire year of 2025, the Cambodia-China bilateral trade volume reached $19.731 billion, marking a 29.9% increase compared to 2024. During this period, Cambodian exports totaled $1.686 billion, while imports exceeded $18 billion.
