Cambodia’s longan exports climb 23% as contract farming boosts farmer income

PHNOM PENH, Jan 27, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia earned nearly $40 million from fresh Pailin longan exports in 2025, a 23 percent increase from about $32 million the previous year, the Ministry of Commerce said Tuesday.

Exports reached 32,963 tons last year, up more than 31 percent year-on-year, driven by stronger yields, improved market access and rising demand from China, the primary destination for the fruit, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

Export companies purchasing longan for shipment to China signed contracts with farmers at 3,000 riel per kilogram, helping stabilize prices and ensure predictable income for growers who follow proper cultivation techniques.

Suon Chum, vice president of the Pailin Longan Association, said farmers can secure reasonable profits at this price level if they adhere to technical standards in maintaining orchards and fruit quality.

Agriculture Minister Dith Tina noted in a recent report that Cambodia’s overall crop exports performed strongly in 2025, rising nearly 28 percent year-on-year. He said fruit, rice, vegetables and other farm products were sufficient to meet domestic demand while expanding into overseas markets.