Vehicle Imports Surge 69% to $117 Million in January as Domestic Demand Rises

PHNOM PENH, Feb 23, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s vehicle imports soared to $117 million in January, a 68.9 percent jump from the same month last year, official data showed Monday.

The General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE) said the surge reflects rising domestic demand, buoyed by stronger economic conditions and higher household incomes.

Ngorn Saing, CEO of RMA Cambodia, noted that the automotive market continues to expand, driven by the country’s youthful population and growing purchasing power. “Cambodia’s economic situation has improved. More people are employed and earning higher incomes, enabling them to purchase vehicles,” he said.

The boom has also boosted state revenue. Customs collections rose 21 percent in 2025, partly due to higher imports of vehicles and machinery.

Kun Nhem, Minister Delegate attached to the Prime Minister and Director-General of GDCE, said taxes from vehicle and machinery imports accounted for 44 percent of total customs revenue, making them the largest contributor to import-based state income.

He added that vehicle imports grew 61 percent last year, totaling about 83,000 units.

According to the Ministry of Commerce, Cambodia imported family-use vehicles worth $1.1 billion in 2025, up 60.2 percent from 2024.