Credit: THE NATION

Bangkok, June 28 — Thailand’s border trade with Cambodia recorded steady growth in the first five months of 2025, though officials now warn of economic disruptions following a border closure earlier this month.

Credit: NATION THAILAND

According to Arada Fuengthong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, the value of Thai-Cambodian border trade between January and May reached 80.72 billion baht, representing an increase of 11.20% compared to the same period in 2024.
During this time:

• Thai exports to Cambodia totaled 63.07 billion baht, up 9%.
  
• Imports from Cambodia reached 17.64 billion baht, a 20% increase.
  
• The country recorded a trade surplus of 45.43 billion baht.

In May alone, the total trade value amounted to 16.11 billion baht, growing by 7% year-on-year. Exports stood at 12.85 billion baht, a 6.20% rise, while imports reached 3.25 billion baht. The trade surplus for the month was 9.59 billion baht.

Credit: THE NATION

Border Closure Slows Trade and Tourism

Despite these positive figures, Arada revealed that trade volumes are expected to decline in June following the closure of all Thai-Cambodian border crossings on June 7, 2025. The measure, which halted the movement of people, goods, and tourists, has directly impacted local economies in border provinces.

“Business activity has noticeably slowed, and many shops on both sides of the border have closed,” Arada stated. “The closure also affects domestic and international tourism in these regions.”

Commerce Ministry Moves to Mitigate Impact

In response, the Ministry of Commerce has introduced measures to ease the effects of the border shutdown. These include:
Opening alternative trading spaces in government offices, shopping malls, and private-sector venues.

Coordinating with government agencies and private buyers to purchase surplus fruits and vegetables for local distribution.

Assisting exporters of consumer goods and industrial products by identifying new transportation routes, expanding market opportunities, and encouraging online trade.

Arada noted that the impact on the export of fruits and vegetables has been less severe, as the border closure coincided with the end of the harvest season.

Credit: Khmer Times

Concerns Over Cassava Imports

On the import side, the ministry expressed concerns over cassava supplies, which are typically brought in from Cambodia for processing and export. To address this, Thailand is increasing imports from Laos, which currently supplies over 60% of the country’s cassava imports.

Outlook Remains Uncertain

While the government continues to monitor the situation and seek solutions, no official date has been set for the reopening of the border. Authorities remain focused on supporting affected businesses and maintaining trade activity through alternative means.

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