Cambodia Moves to Certify Kampong Thom Cashews as GI Product to Boost Export Value

By Leng Deth

Phnom Penh, Cambodia (Aug. 18, 2025) — Cambodia is preparing to register Kampong Thom cashews as a Geographical Indication (GI) product, a move aimed at enhancing export potential and protecting traditional agricultural knowledge.

The Cambodian Cashew Association said the GI designation would help elevate Kampong Thom’s cashew industry by increasing market value, expanding export opportunities, and preserving local farming practices. The initiative also supports rural development by empowering producers and safeguarding domestic products under a collective brand.

Two representatives from the association participated in a strategic meeting on August 14 to advance the GI registration process. The event, organized by the PEARL–FAO project, brought together government officials, technical experts, and local stakeholders to discuss the roadmap for national and international recognition of Kampong Thom cashews.

“This is a critical step toward formalizing the unique identity of Kampong Thom’s cashews,” said Uon Silot, President of the Cashew Nut Association of Cambodia (CAC). He emphasized the importance of inclusive consultations with local authorities and value chain actors to establish a GI association and finalize internal regulations and governance structures.

The GI initiative aligns with Cambodia’s broader efforts to promote high-quality, origin-linked products and strengthen competitiveness in global markets. Officials say the move could position Kampong Thom cashews alongside other premium GI-certified goods, reinforcing national pride and quality assurance.

Cambodia earned more than $753 million from cashew exports in the first half of 2025, marking a 56.67% increase year-on-year, according to data from the Ministry of Commerce.

The country exported nearly 600,000 metric tons of cashew nuts during the period, up from $480 million in revenue recorded in H1 2024. Vietnam remained Cambodia’s largest export market, absorbing the bulk of shipments.

Cambodia produced 850,000 metric tons of cashew nuts in 2024, with raw cashew exports reaching 815,000 tons, up 21% from the previous year, according to the Cambodian Cashew Association.

Export earnings rose 26.15% to $1.15 billion, driven by strong demand from Vietnam, which accounted for 795,000 tons of Cambodia’s outbound shipments. The surge underscores the country’s growing role in the global cashew supply chain and its deepening trade ties with Vietnam.