Logistics costs in Cambodia continue to climb, presenting new challenges for export businesses. Logistics expert Neak Oknha Sim Chhit Ang noted that, affected by geopolitical tensions and the Red Sea crisis, global shipping costs keep rising, and Cambodia's export shipping fees have already increased to 2 to 4 times their previous level.
According to reports, the current shipping cost for a 40-foot container going to distant markets such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union has risen from about 3,000 US dollars in the past to 8,000 to 13,000 US dollars. The sharp increase in shipping costs further drives up production and export expenses for businesses, and also puts pressure on the international competitiveness of Cambodian products.
In response to this situation, Cambodia is adjusting its shipping methods and attempting to reduce logistics expenses through large-scale transport. For example, in recent times Cambodia's rice exports to the Philippines have shifted from container shipping to large bulk carrier shipping, in order to lower the shipping cost per unit of cargo.
At the same time, Cambodia is also actively adjusting the layout of its export markets, directing more attention toward ASEAN countries that are relatively close in distance and where shipping costs are comparatively lower. According to Sim Chhit Ang, Cambodia's export share to ASEAN markets has grown by about 15%, with rice exports to the Philippines and Indonesia seeing increases.
Although rising logistics costs have created pressure, traditional markets such as Europe and the United States remain an important direction for Cambodia's exports. Going forward, Cambodia will continue to optimize shipping methods, expand regional markets, and adjust export strategies in an effort to reduce costs and maintain the price advantage and competitiveness of its products in the international market.