Cambodia Pushes for Stronger Economic Cooperation with Canada
Cambodia is preparing to deepen its cooperation with Canada across multiple sectors, with a strong focus on trade and economic development. Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed the plan during a meeting with Canadian Ambassador Christian DesRoches at the Peace Palace on April 20. The discussions highlighted both countries’ shared commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations, especially in areas that can drive long term economic growth.
Long Standing Relations and Growing Investment
During the meeting, Ambassador DesRoches praised the long history of diplomatic ties between Cambodia and Canada, noting steady progress in trade relations and increasing Canadian investment in the Kingdom. He reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Cambodia, particularly in the economic sector. The ambassador also expressed strong support for Cambodia’s role as host of the upcoming 20th Francophonie Summit, confirming that Canada will send a high level delegation to participate.
Support for Regional Trade and ASEAN Cooperation
Canada also acknowledged Cambodia’s role in advancing regional economic integration. DesRoches thanked the Cambodian government for its support in promoting Canada ASEAN economic cooperation and for helping move forward negotiations on the ASEAN–Canada Free Trade Agreement, known as ACFTA. Both sides expect the agreement to be finalized and signed in the near future, which could further open trade opportunities between Canada and Southeast Asia.
Cambodia’s Strategy to Boost Trade and Investment
Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed confidence that bilateral relations will continue to strengthen under the current diplomatic leadership. He also thanked Canada for its contributions to Cambodia’s peace building process and long term development efforts. To further support trade expansion, the Cambodian government has instructed the Ministry of Commerce and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce to establish a representative office in Canada. This office will act as a bridge to promote business connections and attract more investment opportunities between the two countries.
Trade Performance and Market Trends
According to the General Department of Customs and Excise, trade between Cambodia and Canada continues to grow steadily.
2025 total trade reached 1.33 billion US dollars
Cambodian exports to Canada reached 1.27 billion US dollars
Imports from Canada stood at 63.41 million US dollars
In the first quarter of 2026, trade maintained positive momentum with total exchange reaching 297.05 million US dollars. Exports slightly declined to 277.73 million US dollars, while imports from Canada increased sharply to 19.32 million US dollars, reflecting growing demand for Canadian goods in Cambodia.
Key Export Sectors and Business Outlook
Cambodia’s exports to Canada are largely driven by garments, travel goods, footwear, bicycles, and electronic components. In return, Cambodia imports electronics, vehicles, and other industrial products from Canada. Cambodia Chamber of Commerce vice president Lim Heng noted that Canada remains a key market for Cambodian manufacturing industries. He added that if global economic conditions improve and tourism demand rises, export orders are expected to increase further, strengthening the overall trade relationship.
Conclusion
Cambodia and Canada are clearly moving toward a deeper and more strategic economic partnership. With strong diplomatic engagement, rising trade volumes, and new institutional support such as a Cambodian representative office in Canada, both countries are laying the groundwork for expanded investment and stronger market access. The expected finalization of the ASEAN–Canada Free Trade Agreement could further accelerate this growth, making the partnership even more important in the years ahead.