Cambodia’s Exports to EU Top $1 Billion in Q1 as Manufacturing Momentum Strengthens

PHNOM PENH, April 27, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s exports to the European Union surpassed $1 billion in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting sustained growth in the country’s manufacturing sector and stronger trade ties with key European markets, official data showed Monday.

The Ministry of Commerce said exports to the EU reached $1.19 billion between January and March, up 8.32 percent year‑on‑year. Total bilateral trade rose 7.80 percent to $1.37 billion, with imports from the bloc edging up to $175 million.

Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain remain Cambodia’s main EU destinations, with garments, footwear and travel goods continuing to dominate shipments.

Lim Heng, vice president of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, said rising exports are supported by more than 1,000 registered investment projects, boosting industrial output and capacity. Commerce Ministry spokesperson Penn Sovicheat added that growing trade volume underscores Cambodia’s ability to maintain global markets, stabilize supply chains and strengthen its role in value chains.

The Asian Development Bank forecasts Cambodia’s economy will expand 4.5 percent in 2026, with manufacturing output rising 7.3 percent, driven by garment orders and increasing contributions from non‑garment sectors such as electrical components, tires and furniture.

In 2025, Cambodia‑EU trade totaled $5.87 billion, up 10.20 percent from 2024, with exports climbing 13.55 percent to $5 billion while imports fell 5.88 percent to $863 million.