Cambodia Among ASEAN’s Fastest‑Growing Economies

PHNOM PENH, May 6, 2026 (KPT) — ASEAN’s frontier economies are emerging as new growth engines, with Vietnam leading expansion at 31.6 times GDP growth, followed by Myanmar at 19 times and Cambodia at 18.3 times, according to Bora Chhay, Managing Director of strategic advisory firm BowerGroupAsia.

He noted that newer members are steadily narrowing the gap with more mature ASEAN economies. Indonesia has meanwhile crossed the $1.5 trillion mark, while other states continue steady expansion, underscoring ASEAN’s position as a global growth powerhouse driven by both frontier dynamism and established strength.

Bora stressed that Cambodia’s rapid expansion reflects its growing role in the region’s transformation, as frontier economies contribute to ASEAN’s collective resilience and competitiveness.

Cambodia’s trade with ASEAN rose to US$16.37 billion in 2025, Ministry of Commerce data showed Monday. Exports reached US$5.67 billion, up 9.8 percent from 2024, while imports climbed to US$10.69 billion. ASEAN accounted for 18.1 percent of Cambodia’s total exports and 31.5 percent of imports.

Exports were mainly agricultural products such as rice, cashew nuts, rubber latex, cassava and bananas. Commerce Ministry spokesperson Penn Sovicheat said the growth reflects Cambodia’s ability to maintain key markets while enhancing its role in regional supply chains.

Cambodia’s total exports in 2025 stood at US$31.28 billion, a 16.95 percent year‑on‑year increase, while imports rose 18.32 percent to US$33.96 billion, the ministry added.