Cambodia's rice production is forecast to rebound to 14.4 million metric tons (MMT) in Marketing Year (MY) 2026/27 after a 5 percent decline in MY 2025/26. Milled rice exports are expected to exceed 1 million metric tons (MT) in MY 2025/26. Corn production is forecast to recover to 1.1 MMT on improved prices and new Vietnamese export channels.
Rice Production and Trade
- Production: MY 2026/27 rice production is projected to increase to 8.8 MMT (14.4 MMT rough equivalent) from 8.1 MMT in MY 2025/26, driven by expanded harvested area (3.85 million hectares) and improved yields (3.74 MT/HA). This recovery follows challenges in MY 2025/26 due to higher input costs and supply disruptions.
- Exports: MY 2026/27 exports are forecast at 4.1 MMT, with major destinations including Vietnam (paddy), China, the European Union, and the Philippines. January–April 2026 exports reached nearly 470,000 MT, a 70% year-on-year increase, supported by competitive pricing and market diversification. Exports to the Philippines are expected to reach 200,000 MT by end-2026.
- Consumption: Domestic consumption is projected to remain flat at approximately 4.2 MMT, reflecting dietary diversification and increased wheat imports (41% year-over-year growth in January–April 2026).
Corn Production and Trade
- Production: MY 2026/27 corn production is forecast to recover to 1.1 MMT from 900,000 MT in MY 2025/26, as tighter supplies lift prices and new export channels to Vietnam emerge. Planted area is expected to expand to 200,000 hectares, with yields improving to 5.50 MT/HA.
- Exports: MY 2026/27 corn exports are projected at 550,000 MT, up from 300,000 MT in MY 2025/26, driven by a 2025 agreement with Vietnamese firm Agro King Trading Co., Ltd. Exports to Thailand fell to near zero in MY 2025/26 due to the border conflict.
- Consumption: Corn consumption is forecast to decrease to 700,000 MT in MY 2026/27, a 12.5% decline from MY 2025/26, as domestic feed demand remains insufficient to offset lost exports to Thailand.
Policy and Supply Chain
- The Cambodian government is prioritizing agricultural input security, with efforts to negotiate fertilizer imports and boost domestic production. China has pledged to support Cambodia's supply of oil, gas, and fertilizers.
- Improved fertilizer access and higher farm-gate prices may support production recovery in MY 2026/27, but high input costs and competition from cassava will continue to constrain expansion unless profitability improves.
