PHNOM PENH, September 11, 2024 — Prime Minister Hun Manet announced that U.S. firms plan to increase their imports of Cambodian rice to satisfy growing demand in American markets.

The announcement came during the closing remarks at the 7th Cambodian Rice Forum held in Phnom Penh. Hun Manet shared that representatives from several U.S. companies conveyed this commitment during a meeting at the Peace Palace earlier today.

The Prime Minister reflected on the advancements of Cambodian products in the U.S., noting a significant change from three decades ago. “When I studied in the U.S. about 30 years ago, Cambodian products were virtually absent from supermarkets. Today, our rice, along with other agricultural, travel goods, and textile products, mark a growing presence,” he remarked.

Hun Manet also urged all stakeholders to continue collaborative efforts to promote Cambodian exports on the global stage.

From January to August 2024, Cambodia's international exports reached US$17.58 billion, marking an increase of 16.7 percent over the same period in the previous year.