Cambodia and Australia have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding economic and trade cooperation during the 6th Bilateral Senior Officials’ Talks held in Phnom Penh on September 11, with both sides highlighting opportunities across trade, investment, agriculture, clean energy and other priority sectors.
The meeting was chaired by Un Kheang, Secretary of State of Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Michelle Chan, Deputy Secretary of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Officials from nine Cambodian ministries and institutions, along with the Australian Ambassador to Cambodia and Australian Embassy representatives, also attended.
Key Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Meeting | 6th Bilateral Senior Officials’ Talks |
| Date | September 11, 2026 |
| Location | Phnom Penh |
| Cambodia’s chair | Un Kheang |
| Australia’s chair | Michelle Chan |
| 2025 bilateral trade | About $1.8 billion |
| Next talks | 2027 in Australia |
| Diplomatic milestone | 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027 |
Trade and Investment at the Centre of Bilateral Talks
The latest discussions focused on expanding cooperation in the economy, trade and investment, reflecting the longstanding relationship between Cambodia and Australia.
The two countries also identified defense and security, agriculture and agro industry, clean energy, education and mine clearance as priority areas for continued cooperation.
The Australian Embassy in Cambodia described the relationship as a strong and practical partnership as the two countries prepare to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.
The Senior Officials’ Talks have been held annually since 2019, providing a regular platform for both governments to exchange updates and discuss areas of mutual interest.
Regional Trade Agreements Support Economic Links
Trade cooperation between Cambodia and Australia also takes place within broader regional frameworks, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the ASEAN Australia New Zealand Free Trade Area.
These agreements provide an important foundation for businesses operating across the wider Asia Pacific region and support Cambodia’s integration into regional trade networks.
The discussions therefore extend beyond bilateral trade, with both countries able to explore opportunities connected to wider regional supply chains, investment and market access.
Bilateral Trade Reached About $1.8 Billion in 2025
According to Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, bilateral trade in goods and services was valued at approximately $1.8 billion in 2025.
Cambodia’s imports from Australia included gold, clothing, footwear, travel goods and bags. Australia’s leading exports to Cambodia included cereal preparations, coal and beef.
The trade relationship therefore covers both consumer and industrial products, while agriculture and food related trade remain important areas of economic engagement.
Tourism Remains an Important Economic Connection
Beyond merchandise and services trade, tourism continues to serve as a key economic link between Cambodia and Australia.
People to people exchanges have been an important element of the bilateral relationship and remain part of the broader framework for cooperation.
For Cambodia, maintaining strong connections with Australia can support opportunities across tourism, education, investment and other services while strengthening links between businesses and communities in both countries.
What Comes Next for Cambodia Australia Relations?
The next round of Bilateral Senior Officials’ Talks is scheduled to take place in Australia in 2027.
The timing will coincide with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Australia, providing an opportunity for both countries to review progress and identify additional areas for cooperation.
Angkor Times Analysis
The latest talks show that Cambodia Australia relations extend well beyond traditional trade. Agriculture, clean energy, education, tourism, investment and mine clearance are all part of a broader economic and development partnership.
The $1.8 billion trade figure also indicates a substantial commercial relationship, although the trade structure remains different across the two markets. For Cambodian businesses, continued engagement with Australia could create opportunities in sectors where Cambodia is strengthening production, exports and regional supply chain participation.
FAQs
How much did Cambodia and Australia trade in 2025?
Bilateral trade in goods and services was valued at approximately $1.8 billion in 2025, according to Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
When were the latest Cambodia Australia talks held?
The 6th Bilateral Senior Officials’ Talks were held in Phnom Penh on September 11, 2026.
Who chaired the bilateral talks?
The Cambodian delegation was chaired by Un Kheang, while the Australian delegation was chaired by Michelle Chan.
What sectors are Cambodia and Australia prioritising?
Priority areas include economy, trade and investment, defense and security, agriculture and agro industry, clean energy, education and mine clearance.
What trade agreements are relevant to Cambodia Australia trade?
The discussions included the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the ASEAN Australia New Zealand Free Trade Area.
When will the next bilateral talks take place?
The next round is scheduled to be held in Australia in 2027.
Why is 2027 significant for Cambodia and Australia?
The two countries are preparing to mark the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2027.