Cambodia's pharmaceutical scene is on the brink of a boom, with economic and political winds blowing in favour of a robust expansion. In 2024, Cambodia exported a total of $18.5M in pharmaceutical products, primarily to China ($4.95M), Spain ($3.22M), and South Korea ($3.1M)1 . The country is also moving to broaden healthcare access through the Roadmap Towards Universal Health Coverage, unveiled in 2024, that aims to ensure an essential health service coverage index of at least 80% by 20252. These tides indicate opportunities for generic drug manufacturers and other businesses in Cambodia’s expanding pharmaceutical market.
This article will explore how DHL Express’ logistical support and expertise in cold chain logistics assists companies in successfully shipping medicines, medical equipment and biological samples overseas.
The importance of medical shipments in Cambodia
Cambodia’s healthcare sector has undergone steady transformation over the past decade, driven by rising healthcare spending, public-sector reforms, and increased reliance on imported medical technologies and pharmaceuticals.
According to Volza's import data in Cambodia, buyers worldwide imported 6,577 shipments of pharmaceuticals in 20253. These shipments were facilitated by exporters and purchased by 335 verified global buyers3. These movements underscore the need for cold chain delivery systems that protect product integrity throughout international transit.
Common medical products shipped into and out of Cambodia include:
- Pacemakers and implantable cardiac devices that require controlled handling
- CT scanners and imaging components sensitive to temperature and shock
- Syringes, PPE, and single-use medical consumables
- Patient monitors and hemodialysis machines used in critical care settings
- Therapeutic medicines, including biologics and temperature-sensitive injectables
Many of these products must remain within defined temperature ranges from origin to destination. As healthcare standards rise and regulatory oversight tightens, healthcare importers and distributors must adopt reliable cold chain transportation practices to ensure compliance and continuity of care.