As Cambodia continues to embrace the digital economy, businesses are seizing new opportunities to expand their operations through e-commerce, catering to both local and cross-border markets. According to a report by the General Department of Customs and Excise, Cambodia's exports reached US$8 billion in the first four months of 2024, reflecting a 15.2% increase compared to US$6.94 billion during the same period the previous year.
This growth in e-commerce is closely linked to widespread internet access and the surge in smart mobile device usage. Data from GSMA Intelligence shows that Cambodia had 24.65 million cellular mobile connections at the start of 2024, a 4.2% increase from the same period in 2023. This figure represents 144.7% of the country’s total population as of January 2024.
Looking ahead, the ongoing increase in mobile device usage and cellular connections is expected to further accelerate e-commerce adoption in Cambodia. Recent data from Statista projects that Cambodia’s e-commerce users will reach 2.9 million by 2029, reflecting the country's rapidly expanding digital economy as consumers increasingly turn to online platforms for their convenience, competitive pricing, and widespread availability.
As global e-commerce reshapes business operations, local enterprises in Cambodia are well-positioned to bring popular products to international markets. This article will highlight Cambodia’s top-selling online products and explore the factors that make them appealing to a global audience.
The top 10 trending e-commerce products
Cambodia is rapidly emerging as a key player in global e-commerce, with its unique products drawing the interest of buyers from around the globe.
The Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC) revealed that some of Cambodia’s top-selling exports include knit sweaters, trunks and cases, and cassava, highlighting the country’s growing influence in various industries. Beyond these, a variety of other locally made items are also gaining popularity internationally.
Here are the top 10 trending Cambodian products that are making waves on online platforms:
1. Garments
The garment industry is crucial to Cambodia’s economy, contributing over 40% of total merchandise exports and significantly impacting GDP. It is also responsible for providing jobs for more than 750,000 workers.
Cambodian garments are popular internationally due to their high-quality craftsmanship that meets global consumer expectations. In 2022, Statista reported that Cambodia's apparel exports reached approximately USD$13 billion, up from USD$11.5 billion in 2019. The combination of quality and cost-effective production makes these garments appealing to value-conscious buyers in developed markets.
2. Electrical and electronic equipment
Cambodia’s electronics sector has recently experienced an unprecedented surge, firmly positioning the nation on the global trade map. In the first five months of 2023 alone, Cambodia generated an impressive US$1.253 billion from electrical and electronic equipment exports.
The demand for Cambodian electronics stems from its ability to offer competitive pricing, skilled labor, and a favorable geographic location, making it an attractive hub for electronics manufacturing and export. These advantages have positioned Cambodian electronics, including top-selling online products like smartphones and home appliances, as a key player in the global market.
3. Palm sugar
Palm sugar, which is derived from the sap of various palm trees, is a natural sweetener known for its distinctive, rich flavor. It is commonly used in a variety of culinary applications, including desserts, beverages, and savory dishes in traditional and modern cuisines.
As global demand for Kampong Speu palm sugar continues to rise, businesses have the potential to capture a share of a lucrative market that shows no signs of slowing down. The Kampong Speu Palm Sugar Promotion Association has reported a consistent year-on-year increase in orders, highlighting the strong and growing popularity for this product abroad.
4. Rice
Rice is popular in e-commerce due to its high global demand as a staple food and its long shelf life, which makes it ideal for bulk online purchases. Cambodia produces over 12 million tonnes of paddy rice or more than seven million tonnes of milled rice, exceeding domestic demand by approximately 50%.
According to reports from the ADB, rice constitutes over 70% of Cambodia’s agricultural land and contributes around 50% of the agriculture sector's total output. Production has grown substantially over the past two decades, with a significant surplus primarily exported to Europe, capturing an impressive 10% market share.
5. Footwear
In recent data from the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE), Cambodia's exports of garments, footwear, and travel goods (GFT) showed a 16.89% year-on-year increase in the first half of this year. Footwear exports alone contributed an increase of 10.5%.
In particular, Cambodian leather footwear is rapidly becoming a trending e-commerce product, especially in international markets like the United States, Cambodia's largest export destination, with an export value of US$38 million. The growing appeal stems from a combination of high quality, stylish designs, and affordability, making Cambodian leather shoes a preferred choice for global consumers.
6. Khmer prahok
Cambodia is poised to significantly impact the global food scene with its latest export: powdered Khmer prahok. This fermented fish paste, known for its strong and unique flavor, is set to be introduced to the European market in a refined powdered form, showcasing its adaptability and appeal beyond traditional Cambodian dishes.
The prahok powder meets stringent certification processes and quality standards such as the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and the Cambodia Quality Seal (CQS), to ensure its safety and reliability for international consumers.
7. Trunks and cases
Cambodia’s production of trunks and cases, particularly those made from durable materials, has established the country as a popular exporter of travel products and accessories.
According to data from the 2023 & 2024 Cambodia Freight and Logistics market trends by Mordor Intelligence™, trunks and cases have gained remarkable popularity in many regions, contributing USD$2.04 billion to the country's export value. This places them alongside other major exports such as knit sweaters (USD$2.47 billion) and knit women's suits (USD$1.84 billion).
The United States remains Cambodia's largest export market, with goods worth USD$9.59 billion, followed by China, Germany, Vietnam, and Japan.
8. Cassava
Cassava, a vital agricultural product, is crucial to Cambodia's export economy. With a growing demand for this versatile crop in various industries, including food and biofuel, cassava remains a significant export item.
In 2020, Cambodia launched the "National Policy on Cassava 2020-2025" to boost production and drive its commercialization for export. The demand for cassava is surging, with Vietnam leading as the largest importer, purchasing 1,381,271.56 tonnes last year. Thailand followed closely with 1,298,195.8 tonnes, and mainland China imported 203,918.71 tonnes.
In addition, Italy, Belgium, and the United States are notable markets for Cambodian cassava. This increasing global demand underscores cassava's potential as a lucrative product for online sales.
9. Rubber
Rubber and rubber products from Cambodia are essential in various global manufacturing processes, driving their demand on international e-commerce platforms.
A report from the General Directorate of Rubber revealed that Cambodia exported 69,322 tons of dry rubber in the first quarter of 2024, reflecting a 5.1% increase from the 65,921 tons exported during the same period in 2023.
This surge in exports generated USD$100.5 million in revenue for Q1 2024, an 8% rise compared to the USD$92.9 million earned in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.
10. Precious metals and jewelry
Cambodian artisans have a long-standing tradition of intricate metalwork and jewelry design, which makes precious metals and jewelry among the most popular products for e-commerce. This unique craftsmanship appeals to consumers looking for exclusive, handcrafted pieces that carry cultural significance.
How to successfully export these products
To successfully export Cambodia's most popular e-commerce products, businesses must adopt best practices that ensure their offerings stand out globally. This involves implementing effective marketing strategies to highlight the unique qualities of Cambodian products, investing in high-quality packaging to preserve product integrity during transit, and optimizing logistics to minimize delays and costs.
Moreover, conducting thorough market research to understand international consumer preferences will help tailor products accordingly. You'll also need to know the export paperwork required for international shipping before getting started.
Leveraging DHL Express’s e-commerce expertise
Cambodian businesses have immense opportunities to expand their e-commerce reach globally. Partnering with a global courier like DHL Express offers significant advantages, whether you're a small start-up or an established enterprise. You can leverage industry-leading logistics services and a vast last-mile delivery network to confidently market and ship trending products worldwide.
With a network spanning over 220 countries, DHL Express ensures that Cambodian enterprises can easily export products to international markets. Committed to innovation, DHL Express uses advanced technology to manage shipments, ensuring your goods reach their destinations in the best condition. Our tailored support and expert advice on international shipping in Cambodia help businesses overcome logistics challenges and capitalize on the growing potential for e-commerce exports. Start navigating the global market with ease by opening a DHL Express business account today.
