How to Start an Import-Export Business in Cambodia

Introduction

Cambodia, with its strategic location in Southeast Asia and participation in global trade agreements, has become an attractive destination for international and local entrepreneurs looking to launch an import-export business. In 2025, Cambodia offers a business-friendly environment, lower operational costs, growing infrastructure, and access to markets across ASEAN, China, the EU, and beyond.

Whether you want to import electronics or export rice and garments, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to launch a profitable import-export business in Cambodia.

1. Understand the Market Landscape

Before jumping into business registration, take time to research the market:

• Top Cambodian exports: Garments, footwear, bicycles, rice, rubber, and mangoes.

• Top imports: Machinery, petroleum products, electronics, construction materials, and consumer goods.

• Key trading partners: China, Thailand, Vietnam, the US, EU, and Japan.

Use market data, trade fairs, and networking with a local Cambodia sourcing agent to identify high-demand products and suppliers.

2. Decide What to Import or Export

Narrow your business idea to a focused category:

For Export:

• Agricultural goods (milled rice, cassava, bananas)

• Textile and garment products

• Handicrafts and furniture

For Import:

• Consumer electronics

• Building materials

• Industrial machinery

• Food & beverage products

📌 Pro Tip: Start with a niche market to avoid heavy competition and complex logistics.

3. Register Your Business in Cambodia

To operate legally, you must register your business through the Ministry of Commerce (MoC). You can choose one of the following structures:

• Sole proprietorship (for Cambodian citizens only)

• Private Limited Company (Ltd) – most popular choice for both locals and foreigners

• Representative Office or Branch Office (if you’re an overseas company expanding)

Required Documents:

• Company name reservation certificate

• Articles of Incorporation

• Identity documents/passport of shareholders

• Registered business address

🔗 Let us help you with company registration in Cambodia

4. Get a Tax Identification Number (TIN)

Once your business is registered, you must register for tax with the General Department of Taxation (GDT) to receive a Tax Identification Number (TIN).

You’ll also need:

• Value Added Tax (VAT) registration

• Monthly and annual tax filing

• Invoices compliant with Cambodian tax laws

5. Apply for an Import-Export License

To legally trade across borders, you’ll need to apply for an Import-Export License through the Ministry of Commerce. Depending on your product category, you may also need special permits or certificates, such as:

• Phytosanitary certificates (for agricultural exports)

• Product registration (for medical or food imports)

• Certificate of Origin (to enjoy preferential tariffs under RCEP or ASEAN)

🔗 We support you in obtaining licenses and trade permits hassle-free

6. Register with Customs

Your company must be registered with the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE) to receive a customs code that allows you to process shipments through official ports or checkpoints.

You’ll need:

• Customs code registration

• Importer/Exporter Identification Number

• HS codes for your product categories

📌 Pro Tip: Work with a licensed customs broker or trade agent to avoid delays and misclassification.

7. Open a Corporate Bank Account

You’ll need a corporate account to receive payments, pay taxes, and manage supplier transactions. Most common options include:

• ACLEDA Bank

• Canadia Bank

• UOB Cambodia

• Maybank

Ensure your account supports USD and local currency (KHR) transactions.

8. Logistics and Freight Planning

Cambodia’s key logistics hubs:

• Phnom Penh Autonomous Port – ideal for container shipping and inland clearance.

• Sihanoukville Port – major seaport for international cargo.

• Dry ports and special economic zones (SEZs) for bonded warehousing.

Decide on:

• Incoterms (e.g., FOB, CIF)

• Freight forwarders or 3PL partners

• Packaging, labeling, and insurance

🔗 Explore Cambodia’s logistics solutions with our expert team

9. Build a Reliable Supply Chain

Your success depends on strong relationships with:

• Local suppliers or manufacturers (for exports)

• Overseas wholesalers or manufacturers (for imports)

Leverage:

• B2B trade platforms (Alibaba, TradeKey)

• Trade shows like CAMBUILD, CAMFOOD, or ASEAN Expo

• Cambodia sourcing experts to ensure product quality and supplier reliability

🔗 Find verified suppliers with Cambodia-Agent.com

10. Go Digital: Website, E-Commerce, and Marketing

Once you’ve set up operations, consider marketing through:

• A professional website with product listings

• Social media (especially Facebook and Telegram)

• Trade directories and B2B platforms

• Digital advertising in Cambodia’s growing online retail space

11. Stay Compliant with Laws and Regulations

Ensure:

• Accurate customs declarations

• Timely tax payments and filings

• Product labeling and documentation

• Labor and environmental compliance if you’re manufacturing locally

You may also need to follow rules under:

• ASEAN Harmonized Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN)

• Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS)

12. Tap into Free Trade Agreements

Cambodia has access to:

• ASEAN Free Trade Area

• RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership)

• Bilateral trade deals with China, Korea, and Japan

These agreements allow reduced tariffs and open markets to over 2.2 billion consumers.

📌 Pro Tip: Claim Certificate of Origin (CO) to access lower tariffs under these agreements.

Conclusion: Why Start in Cambodia Now?

With rising trade volumes, pro-business policies, and cost advantages, Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most promising import-export destinations in 2025. The barriers to entry are low, and the opportunities are wide-ranging across multiple sectors.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and working with trusted local partners, you can launch a profitable and scalable import-export business in Cambodia.

🔗 Ready to start? Contact Cambodia-Agent.com to register your business, find suppliers, or handle logistics—start trading confidently today!