Driven by strong determination from both the government and the private sector to expand processing capacity and promote exports, Cambodia is striving to become one of the world’s leading cashew producers by 2030.
As part of its industrial development strategy, the Cambodian government plans to establish the country’s first cashew processing industrial zone, marking a significant milestone in the growth of its agro-processing sector. The proposed industrial park will be located in Kampong Thom province, Cambodia’s largest cashew-growing area, with approximately 600 hectares of plantations situated around 13 km from Stung Sen city, the provincial capital.
Production and Export Growth
In 2024, Cambodia’s official cashew production reached 850,000 tons, an increase of 26.8% compared to 2023. Cashew exports hit 815,000 tons, up 31% year-on-year, with Vietnam remaining the primary export destination, importing 793,453 tons of raw cashews.
The growing demand for processed cashews has prompted Cambodia to enhance its domestic processing capacity, shifting away from exporting raw materials and towards creating higher value-added products.
Policy and Development Goals
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and the Ministry of Commerce (MoC) have jointly developed the National Cashew Policy 2022–2027, which sets clear objectives for the sector’s transformation.
Under this policy, Cambodia aims to increase its domestic processing rate from the current 5% to 25% by 2027, and further to 50% by 2032.
According to MAFF, Cambodia currently exports about 90% of its raw cashews, most of which are shipped to Vietnam for processing. The government seeks to attract investment in modern processing facilities, encourage technology transfer, and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the cashew industry.
Toward a Sustainable Future
Cambodia’s cashew sector holds enormous potential for growth, given the country’s favorable climate, fertile soil, and expanding agricultural infrastructure. The establishment of a specialized processing zone is expected to boost export value, create jobs, and contribute to rural development, aligning with Cambodia’s broader economic diversification strategy.
By 2030, Cambodia aims not only to increase export revenues but also to establish itself as a major player in the global cashew market, producing high-quality processed products that meet international standards.