Workers handle textiles at a garment factory in Phnom Penh. Post staff
Cambodian exports to the UK alone were nearly $1 billion in 2024, representing a more than 20% increase over the previous year. The UK is Cambodia's 10th-largest trading partner, following China, the US, Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, Canada, Indonesia, Germany and Spain.
According to the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE), in 2024, trade between Cambodia and the UK had a total value of $1,012.45 million, up 16% from 2023. Of this, Cambodia exported $958.75 million worth of goods, an increase of 20.4%, while imports totalled $53.7 million, a decline of 29.9%.
Cambodia had a trade surplus of about $905.05 million with the UK. The UK is Cambodia's 8th-largest export destination, after the US, Vietnam, China, Japan, Canada, Spain and Germany.
Lim Heng, vice-president of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC), told The Post on January 27 that improved diplomatic relations led to the increased trade between the two countries, particularly after the UK’s exit from the EU.
He noted that Cambodian goods continue to flow into the European market through the UK. The majority of the Kingdom’s exports to the UK are clothing, travel bags, footwear, bicycles and some agricultural products. The UK also provides preferential tariff systems for Cambodian goods.
“The revival of global economic growth, combined with the improved diplomatic relations, coincides with Cambodia’s manufacturing sector moving forward. This will continue to drive the growth exports to the UK. Additionally, the improvement of the global tourism industry is another factor that is increasing demand for Cambodian products,” he said.
On November 12, 2024, Cambodia organised the 2nd Joint Trade and Investment Forum with the UK to strengthen trade and investment ties between the two countries. The event served as a platform to show mutual commitment to expanding trade.
During the forum, UK ambassador to Cambodia Dominic Williams expressed his belief that the UK's trade and investment relations with Cambodia have brought many benefits to both sides and play an important role in supporting the Kingdom’s development goals. He also encouraged UK businesses to expand their presence in Cambodia.
Minister of Commerce Cham Nimol, explained that the forum was an excellent platform to strengthen strategic partnerships, fostering sustainable growth and collaboration. She also highlighted the importance of Cambodia's trade integration within the region and globally.
In 2024, Cambodia’s total international trade reached $54.74 billion, a 16.9% increase from 2023. Cambodian exports amounted to $26.2 billion, up 15.7%, while imports totalled $28.54 billion, an 18% increase.
Key exports from Cambodia include garments and textile products, fruits and nuts, machinery, electrical equipment, footwear, rubber and other agricultural products, while major imports include machinery, vehicles, iron products, plastics and chemical products, according to the GDCE.
