Cambodia Sees Surge in Agricultural Investment, Export Growth in 2025

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov. 13, 2025) — Cambodia’s agricultural sector attracted approximately $400 million in investment during the first 10 months of 2025, marking a 200% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to the Council for the Development of Cambodia.

Suon Sophorn, deputy secretary-general of the council, said the sharp rise reflects investor confidence driven by government incentives and favorable investment policies. Of the 575 projects approved so far this year, agriculture and agro-industry accounted for a significant share.

In 2024, Cambodia recorded 414 investment projects — the highest in three decades. The council has since established a dedicated agri-food investment desk, bringing together officials from agriculture, industry, commerce, and finance ministries to streamline procedures and attract more capital into the sector.

Despite progress, officials noted ongoing challenges including high production costs, market volatility, and limited processing capacity. They called for stronger collaboration to support farmers and ensure food security.

Cambodia generated more than $4.18 billion in revenue from exporting over 11.89 million tons of agricultural products to international markets between January and October 2025, according to a report from the General Directorate of Agriculture under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

The report said the total export volume during the 10-month period included 5.74 million tons of non-rice crops, 4.45 million tons of paddy, and nearly 699,000 tons of milled rice. These products were shipped to 90 countries, marking a 28.57% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

Of the estimated export value, paddy rice accounted for approximately $1 billion, milled rice over $556 million, and other agricultural products more than $2.53 billion.

At the Cambodia Agriculture Forum and Expo (CAFE25), Agriculture Secretary of State Prak David said the sector has helped Cambodia overcome past food shortages and now contributes to global food security. In 2024, agriculture made up 16.7% of GDP, with exports exceeding 12 million tons to 95 countries. In the first nine months of 2025, exports rose 30% year-on-year.