Cambodia’s Pepper Sector Shows Export Resilience Amid Global Supply Tightening

PHNOM PENH, Feb 26, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s pepper industry is showing resilience in early 2026, generating nearly $2 million in export revenue in January despite volatility in global agricultural markets, the Commerce Ministry said Thursday.

Exports rose 0.06 percent year on year, with industry leaders pointing to tightening global supplies and steady demand as factors supporting price stability. Local farmgate prices climbed to 25,000–26,000 riel per kilogram (about $6.25–$6.50), reflecting stronger orders and reduced stockpiles.

The Cambodia Pepper and Spices Federation said declining inventories abroad have sustained price momentum, offering improved returns for producers. Annual harvests remain strong, ranging between 17,000 and 20,000 tons across more than 6,000 hectares.

Exports rely heavily on regional trade, with Vietnam accounting for 80 percent, alongside growing markets in China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan and the EU.

Although 2025 earnings fell nearly 12 percent from 2024, longer term performance remains robust. Between 2020 and 2024, pepper exports recorded a 37.47 percent compound annual growth rate, with an RCA index of 5.06, underscoring Cambodia’s competitiveness.