Cambodia’s GFT Exports Surge to $12.7 Billion in First Nine Months of 2025

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct. 22, 2025) — Cambodia earned more than $12.7 billion from exports of garments, footwear, and travel goods (GFT) between January and September 2025, marking a 16.89% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

Garment exports alone totaled $8.63 billion, up 16.89%, while travel goods reached $1.53 billion, a 3.2% rise. Footwear exports also climbed to $1.53 billion, a sharp increase of 26.7%.

Kang Monika, deputy secretary-general of the Textile, Apparel, Footwear & Travel Goods Association in Cambodia (TAFTAC), said the sector remains resilient despite external pressures. “The recent announcement of retaliatory tariffs by the U.S. president has not yet disrupted Cambodia’s garment industry,” he said.

Commerce Ministry spokesperson Penn Sovicheat said the government is pursuing market and product diversification through free trade agreements and encouraging domestic industries to expand their product range.

Economist Chey Tech noted rising exports in garments, bicycles, and electrical components. He attributed the growth to favorable tariff rates, including zero-duty access for textiles and components in markets like the U.K.

“Cambodia’s exports to the U.S. have surged due to a 19% tariff advantage compared to ASEAN peers,” Chhay said. “We’re more competitive—only Indonesia matches us.”