Cambodia’s banana exports surge to $116 million in the first eight months of 2025

By Leng Deth

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct.02, 2025) — Cambodia earned $116 million from fresh banana exports between January and August 2025, marking a 21.41% increase compared to the same period last year, which was driven by the Chinese market, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

The growth reflects rising international demand, particularly from China, which has become Cambodia’s top export destination for bananas. Kim Finan, spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, said the surge is linked to high market demand and improved export capacity.

Cambodia was officially permitted to export fresh bananas to China in May 2019, following phytosanitary inspections and the bilateral agreements. The approval marked a major milestone for Cambodia’s agricultural sector, opening access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets. Since then, China has consistently ranked as the leading importer of Cambodian bananas.

Heng Davy, general manager of Long Sreng Banana Plantation in Stung Treng province, said her company exports daily to China and Japan. “We harvest between 6,000 to 7,000 bunches per day, packing at least three containers—and up to 10 during peak demand,” she said. Domestic consumption remains limited.

In 2024, Cambodia earned over $138 million from banana exports, which was down more than 11% from 2023. The rebound in 2025 signals renewed momentum.

Cambodia currently cultivates more than 16,000 hectares of bananas, with over 11,000 hectares actively harvested. Major growing provinces include Ratanakiri, Kratie, Stung Treng, Kampot, Kampong Cham, and Kampong Speu.