(Phnom Penh): Imports from Singapore to Cambodia have increased by over 200 per cent from late 2025 to early 2026.

According to the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia, the first three months of 2026 saw imports from Singapore surpass USD 537 million, a remarkable 205.9 per cent increase compared to the same period in the previous year.

In contrast, Cambodia's exports to Singapore totalled over USD 18 million, up 24.2 per cent. This development has resulted in a total bilateral trade volume exceeding USD 555 million, reflecting an overall increase of 191.8 per cent.

Lim Heng, Vice President of the Cambodian Chamber of Commerce, highlighted that the notable rise in imports from Singapore is a direct response to the escalation of the Cambodia-Thailand conflict, which led to the closure of land crossings. Consequently, Cambodia has increased its fuel imports from Singapore to compensate for supplies previously sourced from Thailand.

Besides fuel, Cambodia has initiated the import of various other goods from Singapore as alternatives to Thai products, including consumer goods. He also noted positive growth in Cambodia's exports to Singapore, particularly in the garment and agricultural sectors.

Sin Chanthy, CEO of Linehaul Express (Cambodia), explained that while Singapore is not a manufacturing hub, it serves as a significant logistics and redistribution centre. Multiple countries transport goods through Singapore, which often shifts them from larger vessels to smaller ones before sending them to Cambodia.

This logistics process contributes to Singapore's high export figures, which may include items originally produced in China, Europe, the United States, and other regions.

He further emphasised that this increase is a result of Cambodia reducing or ceasing imports of certain goods from neighbouring countries that are currently facing challenges. Consequently, various other countries now fulfil Cambodia's demand by redirecting imports from Thailand.

According to logistics experts, the majority of goods imported from Singapore include fuel, gas, machinery, electrical equipment, spare parts, construction materials, and raw materials for the garment industry.

In contrast, Cambodia's exports to Singapore remain relatively modest, primarily consisting of garments, assembly products, and travel goods.
=FRESH NEWS