WTO Shows Interest in Promoting Cambodian Cashew Exports to Global Markets

PHNOM PENH, Feb. 25, 2026 (KPT) — The World Trade Organization (WTO) has expressed interest in supporting Cambodia’s efforts to expand cashew exports to international markets, opening new opportunities for the country’s fast-growing cashew industry.

Suy Kokthean, Vice President of the Cashew Nut Association of Cambodia (CAC), said the WTO plans to conduct a field study in Kampong Thom province next month to gain deeper insight into the sector.

According to Kokthean, the initiative will begin as a pilot project, with potential expansion focusing on Geographic Indication (GI)-certified and organic cashew products cultivated by local farmers.

“If the WTO becomes more actively involved, Cambodia’s processed cashew exports will have greater potential to access international markets and gain wider recognition, as the organization applies standards aligned with developed countries,” Kokthean said.

Separately, on Feb. 22, the CAC held its first meeting with Siberian Cedar Eco-Factory LLC, a Russian-based company, to discuss cooperation and potential investment in Cambodia’s cashew industry.

The company, which operates offices and factories across Central Asia and Mongolia, expressed interest in purchasing W180-grade processed cashews from Cambodia — a premium grade widely recognized for its superior quality and nutritional value.

Alexey Alpert, Director General of Siberian Cedar Eco-Factory LLC, described the proposed purchase as an initial step in diversifying the company’s product portfolio to meet rising global demand for high-quality nuts. He also outlined plans to invest in upgrading existing cashew processing facilities in Cambodia.

The proposed investment would focus on modernizing equipment, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening quality control systems, enabling more efficient procurement and processing of premium cashews while supporting local sustainability and economic growth.

If initial cooperation proves successful, the company envisions establishing a modern processing plant within the Kampong Thom Cashew Industrial Park.

According to the CAC, Cambodia generated $1.5 billion in revenue from exporting one million tons of raw cashews in 2025, representing a 27 percent increase compared to 2024.