Cambodia–Malaysia Trade Surges Nearly 50% in Q1 as Supply Chains Shift

PHNOM PENH, April 21, 2026 (KPT) — Trade between Cambodia and Malaysia surged nearly 50 percent in the first quarter of 2026, driven by rising demand and shifting regional supply chains, official data showed Tuesday.

The General Department of Customs and Excise said bilateral trade reached $372 million from January to March, a 49.4 percent increase year on year. Exports to Malaysia totaled $55 million, up 48.3 percent, while imports climbed to $317 million, a rise of 49.6 percent.

Malaysia is now Cambodia’s seventh largest trading partner, reflecting its growing role in the Kingdom’s regional trade network.

Commerce Ministry spokesperson Penn Sovicheat said the growth highlights Cambodia’s ability to sustain key markets across regional and global supply chains. “The increase demonstrates sustained demand and reinforces confidence from international buyers, ensuring the stability of supply chains and value chains,” he said.

Analyst Chey Tech noted Cambodia has shifted some imports from Thailand to Malaysia following recent border tensions and a consumer led boycott of Thai goods, accelerating diversification.

The strong start builds on momentum from 2025, when Cambodia–Malaysia trade rose 24.7 percent to $1.1 billion, with imports dominating at $935 million.