Cambodia, U.S. Pledge Deeper Economic Cooperation as Trade Surges 29%

WASHINGTON, Feb 19, 2026 (KPT) – Bilateral trade between Cambodia and the United States rose nearly 29 percent in 2025, underscoring renewed momentum in economic ties as leaders from both countries vowed to deepen cooperation in trade and investment.

Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet met U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Wednesday during his visit to Washington for the inaugural Board of Peace meeting.

Greer praised Cambodia’s efforts to strengthen bilateral economic relations, highlighting the sharp increase in two-way trade and growing U.S. investment in the Kingdom.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, in turn, lauded the U.S. trade team for advancing negotiations that produced a reciprocal trade agreement, setting a tariff rate of about 19 percent on Cambodian exports to the United States. He reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to completing the necessary procedures to ensure full implementation of the deal.

Both sides voiced optimism that closer cooperation would further expand trade flows and attract more American investment to Cambodia. They also discussed potential sectors for deeper collaboration and pledged to work together to resolve outstanding issues to facilitate smoother economic engagement.

The meeting reflects growing confidence in Cambodia–U.S. economic relations, with both countries aiming to leverage expanding trade and investment opportunities to strengthen their long-term partnership.

In 2025, Cambodia–U.S. trade totaled more than $13 billion, up 29 percent, with Cambodian exports about $13 billion and U.S. exports at $417 million — momentum that has carried into early 2026.