From late 2025 to mid-2026, fresh beef prices in Cambodian markets continued to rise noticeably after imports of live cattle and beef from Thailand were suspended. The situation raised the value of local products and gave cattle farmers hope, but also caused concern among low-income consumers.
ស្រ៊ុន ពៅ, President of the Cambodian livestock breeders' association, said beef prices had risen steadily since October 2025. Fresh beef currently retailed at 35,000–38,000 riel per kilogram, compared with an average of about 30,000 riel or less in 2025.
He said that when live cattle were being imported from Thailand, local live-cattle prices had fallen to around 7,000 riel per kilogram, leaving many farmers struggling and prompting some to leave the business. After imports were suspended, stronger domestic demand and demand for exports to Vietnam helped raise live-cattle prices to about 13,000 riel per kilogram.
ស្រ៊ុន ពៅ regarded the increase as a positive sign for Cambodia's livestock sector, helping farmers earn reasonable profits and encouraging them to expand production to meet domestic demand and future export opportunities.
According to a Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries report, Cambodia needs more than 330,000 tonnes of meat for consumption annually. Pork has the highest demand, at approximately 152,000 tonnes, equivalent to more than three million pigs. Beef and buffalo meat account for around 89,000 tonnes, equivalent to more than 800,000 animals, while poultry such as chicken and duck accounts for about 64,000 tonnes, equivalent to more than 53 million birds each year. By: Pai Sokhim
