Cambodia's two-way trade rose 22.1% year on year to $58.49bn over the first three quarters of 2026, Agence Kampuchea Presse reported.

Imports grew faster than exports over the period, leaving the kingdom with a trade gap of about $3.54bn. Phnom Penh credits its network of regional and bilateral trade deals with opening new markets to Cambodian manufacturers.

Exports between January and September climbed 18% to $27.47bn, while imports grew 26% to $31.01bn, according to the ministry's report.

Penn Sovicheat, Secretary of State and spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce, said the government was working to diversify export destinations, ease trade procedures and widen openings for Cambodian goods abroad.

"Strong export performance demonstrates global market trust in Cambodian goods and the success of its trade partnerships," Penn Sovicheat said according to Agence Kampuchea Presse.

The ministry linked the rise in trade volumes to wider market access and Cambodia's membership of several trade agreements. The RCEP regional pact, along with the free trade agreements Cambodia has signed with China and South Korea, gives the country's products preferential treatment in partner markets.

Garments, footwear and travel goods are among the country's main exports, alongside machinery and electrical equipment, farm produce, bicycles, tyres and furniture.

On the import side, Cambodia mainly buys raw materials for its factories, petroleum products, vehicles and electronics, as well as other consumer and production goods.