Cambodia’s Rice Exports Kick Off 2026 with $143 Million Surge in January

Cambodia's rice industry booms in January 2026 with $143.49M in total exports. Read the full breakdown of global markets, including the US, EU, and China.

PHNOM PENH — Cambodia’s agricultural sector has opened the 2026 fiscal year with a massive export performance, generating over US$143 million in revenue during January alone. According to the latest report from the Cambodia Rice Federation (CRF) released on February 6, the Kingdom successfully exported over 115,000 tons of milled rice and more than 322,000 tons of paddy rice to 45 global destinations.

The data reveals a highly diversified export strategy under the Hun Manet administration, with 50 specialized companies driving Cambodian rice into premium markets across Europe, Asia, and North America.

A Global Export Powerhouse The January 2026 breakdown shows Cambodia’s rising influence in several key economic zones:

  • ASEAN Leadership: 42,095 tons were shipped to five neighboring ASEAN nations, earning $18.78 million.
  • European Demand: 14 European nations imported 38,156 tons, contributing $26.53 million to the economy.
  • The China Factor: Exports to Mainland China and Hong Kong reached 25,416 tons, valued at $16.75 million.
  • Global Expansion: 10,115 tons (worth $8.87 million) reached 14 other major markets, including the United States, Canada, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia.

Quality Over Quantity: The Rise of Fragrant Rice Cambodia continues to dominate the premium market, with high-value Fragrant Rice accounting for a dominant 66.31% of all milled exports. The export mix also included:

  • Broken Rice: 25.94%
  • Other Varieties (White, Parboiled, Organic): 7.75%

Additionally, Cambodia exported 322,488 tons of wet paddy rice, generating an estimated US$72.56 million. This combined with the milled rice revenue brings the month’s total agricultural trade impact to approximately US$143.49 million.

This record-setting January performance positions Cambodia perfectly to meet its 2026 goal of becoming a “Top 5” global rice exporter, supported by modernizing irrigation and the recently announced Funan Techo Canal logistics project.

FAQ: Cambodia rice export statistics January 2026

How much rice did Cambodia export in January 2026?

Cambodia exported 115,784 tons of milled rice (worth $70.93 million) and 322,488 tons of paddy rice (worth $72.56 million), totaling over $143 million for the month.

Which regions are the top buyers of Cambodian rice?

The top three regional markets are ASEAN ($18.78M), the European Union ($26.53M), and China/Hong Kong ($16.75M).

What is the most exported type of rice from Cambodia?

Premium Fragrant Rice is the leading export, making up over 66% of the total milled rice volume.

Does Cambodia export rice to the United States and Canada?

Yes. In January 2026, the U.S. and Canada were part of a group of 14 countries that together imported over 10,000 tons of high-quality Cambodian rice.

Share this: Help us reach 1,000 shares!

Advertisement