Cambodia–UK Trade Slips 6% in January, but Annual Growth and Tariff Preferences Remain Strong

PHNOM PENH, Feb 18, 2026 (KPT) – Bilateral trade between Cambodia and the United Kingdom fell slightly in January, totaling nearly US$90 million, down 6.2 percent from the same month last year, according to official customs data released Wednesday.

Cambodian exports to the UK reached US$84 million, a 7.8 percent year-on-year decline, while imports from Britain surged 28.2 percent to US$5.5 million.

Despite the monthly dip, officials stressed that the broader outlook remains positive. Commerce Minister Cham Nimul reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to strengthening economic cooperation and promoting predictable, rules-based trade to sustain long-term growth and investor confidence.

Cambodia continues to benefit from zero-tariff access to the UK market for key exports such as garments, textiles, and selected electronics, supported by simplified rules of origin under bilateral trade arrangements. Analysts say these preferences remain a critical driver of Cambodia’s export competitiveness.

In 2025, total Cambodia–UK trade reached US$1.06 billion, up 5.7 percent from the previous year. Cambodian exports accounted for roughly US$1 billion, underscoring steady annual growth despite short-term fluctuations in monthly figures.