Cambodia's January 2025 Trade: Strong Growth

Cambodia's total trade volume reached $5.06 billion in January 2025, a robust 24.6% increase compared to the same period last year (full report HERE). However, this growth was accompanied by a widening trade deficit as imports outpaced exports.

Key Figures:

Total Exports: $2.31 billion (+17.3%)
Total Imports: $2.75 billion (+31.6%)
Trade Balance: -$444 million

Major Trading Partners:

China: While China remains Cambodia's largest trading partner, trade dynamics shifted in January. Exports to China decreased by 15.3% to $103 million, while imports surged by 40.5% to $1.45 billion, resulting in a substantial trade deficit of $1.35 billion.
United States: Cambodia maintained a significant trade surplus with the U.S., driven by garment and footwear exports. Exports to the U.S. increased by 38.6% to $869 million, while imports from the U.S. rose by 37.7% to $24 million.
Vietnam: Trade with Vietnam saw exports decline by 25.3% to $279 million and imports increase by 28.7% to $392 million, leading to a $113 million trade deficit.
Thailand: A sharp increase in imports from Thailand (up 25.6% to $298 million) coupled with a decline in exports (down 30.8% to $73 million) further widened Cambodia's trade deficit.
Japan: Japan was a bright spot, with exports increasing by 29.4% to $151 million, driven by agricultural and electronic products. Imports from Japan also grew significantly, up 73.2% to $74 million.

European Trade Highlights:

Several European countries continued to be important export destinations for Cambodia, particularly for textiles and footwear. Notable growth was seen with:

Germany: Exports up 33.9%, imports up 38.5%
United Kingdom: Exports up 39.3%, imports up 53.3%
France: Exports up 27.5%, imports up 25.9%
Italy: Exports up 74.9%, imports up 22.4%

Conclusion:

Cambodia's January 2025 trade performance demonstrates strong overall growth, fueled by robust exports. However, the widening trade deficit, particularly with major partners like China and Thailand, highlights the increasing reliance on imports and the need for economic diversification and increased domestic production.

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