Cambodia Imports From Thailand Fall 42.4% in First Quarter of 2026
Cambodia Imports From Thailand Fall 42.4% in First Quarter of 2026
PHNOM PENH, April 22, 2026 — Cambodia imported more than US$500 million worth of goods from Thailand in the first quarter of 2026 despite prolonged border tensions and reduced overland trade, official customs data showed, highlighting the continued economic interdependence between the neighbouring countries.
According to Cambodia’s General Department of Customs and Excise, total bilateral trade between Cambodia and Thailand reached US$696.19 million from January to March, down 39.4% from the same period a year earlier.
Cambodian exports to Thailand totalled US$181.29 million, a decline of 29%, while imports from Thailand fell 42.4% to US$514.9 million.
Cambodia’s trade deficit with Thailand narrowed to US$333.61 million, down from US$638.13 million in the first quarter of 2025.
Trade flows have continued despite the near year-long closure or disruption of some land crossings, with shipments rerouted through Laos and maritime transport channels.
Border tensions since 2025 have weighed on commerce and triggered calls among some Cambodian consumers to reduce purchases of Thai products, while local producers have attempted to expand domestic manufacturing and substitute imports.
Hong Vanak said replacing Thai imports fully would take time, but recent tensions had increased support for locally made goods and encouraged diversification toward other suppliers.
Cambodian customs officials previously said the government had not imposed a blanket ban on Thai goods, citing its commitments under the World Trade Organization and ASEAN.
They said restrictions applied only to selected products such as fuel and gas, while consumer choice determined demand for most other imports.
In 2025, total Cambodia-Thailand trade stood at US$3.66 billion, down 14.9% from 2024, with Cambodian exports at US$732.85 million and imports from Thailand at US$2.92 billion.
Analysts said trade volumes may remain under pressure while political tensions persist, though supply chains are expected to keep adapting through alternative logistics routes and sourcing strategies.
