U.S. Slashes Tariff on Cambodian Goods to 19% Amid Strengthened Bilateral Trade Ties

U.S. Slashes Tariff on Cambodian Goods to 19% Amid Strengthened Bilateral Trade Ties

Phnom Penh, August 1, 2025 — In a significant development for Cambodia-U.S. economic relations, the United States has officially reduced its reciprocal tariff rate on Cambodian exports to 19%, effective today. This marks the third substantial cut in recent months — from 49% in April, to 36% in July, and now to 19%, reflecting Cambodia’s growing success in trade diplomacy and strategic negotiations.

The breakthrough is widely seen as a result of the concerted efforts of Prime Minister Hun Manet, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, and Minister of Commerce Cham Nimol, whose dedicated leadership and proactive diplomacy have garnered admiration both domestically and internationally. Their teamwork and commitment to strengthening Cambodia’s global trade standing have been crucial in achieving this favorable outcome.

The tariff reduction is expected to greatly enhance Cambodia’s export competitiveness in the U.S. market, particularly for sectors such as textiles, garments, footwear, and electronics — bolstering national economic growth and job creation.

Analysts note that this move signals increasing confidence from Washington in Cambodia’s economic reforms and trade transparency. It also opens new doors for future bilateral cooperation in commerce and investment.

This achievement reaffirms Cambodia’s rising stature on the international stage and its ability to engage major economic powers on equal footing through strategic, peaceful, and skillful negotiation.