Cambodia, Malaysia Deepen Trade Ties With Focus on SMEs, Market Expansion

By Son Minea

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (June 25, 2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of Commerce and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) have pledged to strengthen bilateral trade and investment through joint promotional efforts and expanded market access, officials said following a high-level meeting in Phnom Penh.

The meeting was led by Samheng Bora, secretary of state at the Ministry of Commerce, and Zaimah Osman, trade commissioner of MATRADE. Senior officials from the ministry, including undersecretaries of state and representatives from the General Directorate of Trade Promotion, also attended.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing economic cooperation, with discussions centered on increasing trade flows and fostering investment between the two ASEAN member states. Officials highlighted the potential for deeper collaboration between MATRADE and the ministry to unlock new business opportunities, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.

The two parties agreed to explore joint participation in trade fairs, business forums and other promotional platforms aimed at boosting exports and encouraging cross-border partnerships.

According to official data, bilateral trade between Cambodia and Malaysia rose 17 percent to $430 million during the first five months of 2025. Cambodia’s key exports to Malaysia include textiles, milled rice and industrial goods, while imports from Malaysia consist mainly of auto parts, food and beverages, and electronic devices.