Going global: Exporting Cambodia's agricultural products with DHL Express

As an economy primarily anchored in agriculture, Cambodia's agricultural sector is one of its key engines of economic growth. According to data reported by the Phnom Penh Post¹, the nation’s agricultural exports amounted to about US$4.8 billion in 2024, a US$143 million increase from the previous year². The nation’s fertile landscape supports diverse produce, from staples like paddy rice, maize, cassava and sugarcane, to medicinal crops like eucalyptus, frangipani, and sandalwood to both domestic and foreign export markets.

While the latter are not extensively grown, they hold considerable value in overseas markets like Europe due to their scarcity and therapeutic properties. This is especially true in recent years, where the rise of eco-conscious consumption is driving the consumption of healthy agricultural products like organic produce.

Opportunities for Cambodia's agricultural exports

The global trend towards organic and sustainably produced goods has opened up a potentially lucrative avenue for Cambodian agribusinesses. Figures from Spherical Insights³ underscore this trend, projecting the global organic food and beverages market to grow from US$227.45 billion in 2023 to US$785.53 billion by 2033. As a country that adopts traditional farming practices with minimal use of chemicals, Cambodia is well-positioned to meet this demand.

Meanwhile, Cambodia’s location within the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) grants it access to regional free trade agreements (FTAs) in addition to its bilateral ones, effectively opening doors to markets in the bloc where demand for such products is high. Advances in Cambodian agritech further add to its strategic advantage by helping farmers increase their agricultural output and meet global standards, facilitating their transition towards being more competitive and export-ready.

Key agricultural products and consumption patterns

Among Cambodia’s main agricultural exports, rice remains the crown jewel, particularly the varieties grown in the lush Mekong plains, which have solidified the nation's standing as a top producer of rice worldwide. In addition to rice, Cambodia is known for its other crops, which have all been granted Geographic Indication (GI) status, including Koh Trong pomelo, Kampot pepper, and Kampot durian.

As this certification attests to their distinct origins, cultivation methods, and exceptional taste and quality, it further drives the demand for such agricultural products in markets across ASEAN, China, India, and Europe. Export data reported by Khmer Times⁴ reflect this trend, showing that Cambodia exported 11.66 million tons—or about 30%—of its total crop production in 2024, a 3.21% increase from the previous year.

Exporting agricultural products

If you’re looking to export fresh produce from Cambodia, careful planning is essential to meet international regulations on product quality, safety, documentation, and packaging. For instance, many of Cambodia’s main export markets, like Vietnam⁵ and China⁶, require phytosanitary certificates. Meanwhile, shipping to the European Union (EU) requires compliance with regulations on the maximum residue levels (MRLs) of pesticides⁷ and the submission of electronic Certificates of Inspection (e-COIs) for organic products⁸.

Specific rules also apply to the use of the organic logo⁹. Strict compliance at every step is crucial, and companies may more effectively handle customs procedures and market-specific regulations by collaborating with a seasoned logistics service like DHL Express Cambodia.

Beyond documentation, temperature control is critical to maintain product quality and extend shelf life while ensuring compliance with regulations in countries that require temperature logs during transport. However, shipments of perishables can face challenges like extended transit times and fluctuating temperatures, which make expert coordination and handling throughout the supply chain essential.

By working with logistics providers like DHL Express that offer end-to-end temperature-controlled packaging, storage, and shipping solutions, you can be confident that your goods arrive fresh, safe, and on time, reducing waste and boosting consumer confidence.

Market access and expansion: Cambodia’s main export destinations

When choosing your target market, it’s crucial to first understand where demand is strongest and what consumers value. For example, China and Europe would be among the main destinations to consider when exporting Cambodian milled rice, as identified by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)¹⁰. In the meanwhile, one important market to pursue for cashew nuts would be Vietnam¹¹. Choosing markets where Cambodia has signed a free trade agreement (FTA) is another aspect to take into account. This will facilitate entry and allow your company to take advantage of lower tariffs and easier export processes.

Besides considering demand and trade deals, tapping into government-led initiatives and trade fairs can also help connect you with overseas buyers and boost brand visibility. Once you’ve identified your market, tailoring your product to local preferences is key. In doing so, you can better position your agricultural goods competitively and build consumer trust.

DHL Express: Your preferred partner for exporting agricultural products

Cambodia’s fertile agricultural landscape offers immense potential for cultivating fresh produce for export to the global market, especially as demand for its sustainable and organic food grows. However, even the finest products need reliable delivery to arrive fresh and in top condition to leave a strong first impression that encourages repeat business. That’s where DHL Express Cambodia comes in.

With a global network covering over 220 countries and territories, DHL Express helps ship your goods to international markets quickly and efficiently. Meanwhile, the guidance from our logistics experts ensures smooth navigation of customs procedures to streamline your export process and minimize delays.

For perishables, our cold chain solutions maintain strict temperature control throughout shipping, using innovations like liquid nitrogen cooling for reliable performance without frequent replenishment. In the meantime, temperature monitoring and real-time tracking provide you and your clients with extra peace of mind at every stage.

Open a business account with us today to start tapping into shipping solutions designed to support your growth and global expansion.