Cambodia’s Cashew Exports Surpass One Million Tons in 2025, Generating Over USD 1.5 Billion

In 2025, Cambodia exported more than one million tons of raw cashew nuts, generating over 1.5 billion US dollars in revenue — a rise of more than 27% compared to 2024.

This remarkable performance, highlighted by the Cambodian Cashew Association (CAC), was driven by high yields and favorable prices despite climatic challenges. Exports were mainly directed to Vietnam (around 90% of total shipments), but also reached India, China, and other markets.

Yields and Prices: Profits for Producers

The prices of fresh cashew nuts averaged 5,000 riels per kilogram during the harvest season, while dried cashews sold for around 6,000 riels — roughly equivalent to 4.5 to 5.75 US dollars per kilogram. According to Suy Kokthean, vice president of the CAC, this year was positive for farmers, who achieved good profits thanks to these high prices. Total production reached nearly 1.02 million tons, demonstrating the sector’s resilience despite early weather disruptions.

Local Processing

Despite these successes, local processors are struggling to secure raw materials as strong export demand is driving up prices. With limited technology and only 52 processing facilities — six of which are medium-sized with an annual capacity of 7,000 to 14,000 tons — production costs remain high, reducing competitiveness. In 2025, only 22,600 tons, or about 2.4% of total production, were processed locally, far below national targets.

2026 Outlook: High Prices, Uncertain Yields

For 2026, prices are expected to remain high, supported by export restrictions in other producing countries, which favor Cambodian cashews. Three new factories with a combined capacity of over 60,000 tons are set to open, strengthening the local processing industry.However, climate concerns persist: cooler weather earlier in the year caused flower and fruit drops, though yields could rebound in February if conditions return to “normal.”

New Markets and National Policy

The Ministry of Commerce is focusing on expanding markets for processed cashew products in Europe, the United States, China, Australia, and Japan. Cambodian products are already sold in 16,320 Family Mart stores in Japan, through partnerships such as with Mirarth. Samheng Bora, Secretary of State for Commerce, called for greater investment in processing to support the National Cashew Policy 2022–2027, which aims for 25% domestic processing by 2027 and 50% by 2032.Launched in 2023, this strategy seeks to enhance the value chain and diversify export destinations.