Cambodia, China sign $35 million cashew export deal to boost agricultural trade

Cambodia has secured a significant agricultural export agreement with China, signing a deal to supply in-shell cashew nuts worth an initial $35 million, with forecasts to reach $400 million in the future.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the “Supply Contract of Cambodian Cashew Nuts” was signed yesterday at the Ministry of Commerce. The ceremony was overseen by Samheng Bora, secretary of state and chairman of the Export Promotion Task Force (EPTF), during a visit by a Chinese business delegation.

The delegation was led by Overseas Enterprise Expansion Working Committee of the China Institute for Innovation and Development Strategy (CIIDS) Director Jiang Xiaofei, and included representatives from China Bonded Port Group Co., Ltd.

The agreement, signed by China Bonded Port Group and Men Sarun MDR Co., Ltd., focuses on M23-type in-shell cashew nuts.

Ministry officials said that the initial $35 million shipment serves as a gateway for much larger trade volumes as the partnership matures.

Bora said that the collaboration aims to strengthen bilateral trade and investment while exploring new avenues to boost Cambodian agricultural exports. During the meeting, officials exchanged views on improving the agro-industry sector and value chains, which are regarded as vital drivers for Cambodia’s sustainable economic development.

The Ministry of Commerce stated that this achievement resulted from the EPTF’s active coordination and matchmaking efforts.
The task force plays a critical role in organising links between Cambodian producers and international buyers to optimise the country’s export potential.

Beyond the immediate financial impact, the ministry expects this cooperation to signal a positive environment for further Chinese investment. Increased interest from Chinese firms could lead to the expansion of various Cambodian agricultural products into broader international markets.

By focusing on high-quality varieties like the M23, Cambodia intends to solidify its reputation as a leading cashew producer. This deal reflects the growing economic synergy between the two nations under various trade and development frameworks.

Source: Khmer Times