Cambodia Focuses on ASEAN Integration to Diversify Exports Amid Rising Global Protectionism

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 5, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia is stepping up efforts to deepen regional trade integration as part of a strategy to diversify exports and shield key industries from rising global protectionism, Commerce Minister Cham Nimul said Wednesday.

Speaking at the Cambodia–ASEAN Business Summit in Phnom Penh, Nimul said the government is prioritizing stronger engagement with ASEAN frameworks and supply chain upgrading to bolster resilience in sectors such as garments, footwear and travel goods.

“Despite global volatility, Cambodia remains committed to leveraging existing trade mechanisms and strengthening ASEAN integration,” she said.

Nimul underscored the importance of the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, which reduces tariffs and facilitates smoother trade flows among member states. Cambodia recently ratified amendments to the pact aimed at enhancing regional cooperation.

Beyond market access, she said Cambodia must move up the value chain by encouraging domestic industries to shift from lower-tier production toward Tier-1 and Tier-2 supplier roles, enabling firms to participate more deeply in regional manufacturing networks.

She also highlighted the untapped potential of intra-ASEAN trade, urging businesses and policymakers to seize opportunities within the region. “If we implement our regional frameworks effectively, we could significantly expand economic growth and trade volumes,” Nimul said.

Cambodia’s long-term strategy, she added, involves expanding global market access through ASEAN’s external partnerships while strengthening regional production networks to keep its export industries competitive amid shifting global trade patterns.