Vietnam Spends $2 Billion on Cashews as Imports from Cambodia Soar 🌰

Hanoi, June 2025 — Vietnam's cashew industry has recorded a surprising shift in trade balance, with over $2 billion spent on cashew imports in just the first five months of 2025, signaling a return to a trade deficit in a sector traditionally known for its export strength. 
According to data released by the General Department of Customs, Vietnam imported more than 1.32 million tons of raw cashew nuts between January and May 2025 — worth nearly $2.1 billion. While the import volume increased by 9.1% year-on-year, the value surged by almost 40%, indicating a significant rise in global cashew prices or a shift toward higher-value sourcing. 

📉 Trade Deficit Returns Despite Export Growth

 During the same period, Vietnam’s cashew exports totaled $1.88 billion, showing a 19.4% increase compared to last year. However, the growing import bill has pushed the sector back into a trade deficit, raising concerns among industry analysts. 

🇰🇭 Cambodian Cashew Imports Hit Record High

 The most notable development is the dramatic surge in imports from Cambodia. In the first five months of 2025 alone, Vietnam imported nearly 873,200 tons of cashews from its neighbor, valued at approximately $1.32 billion — a 15% increase in volume and a 36.2% increase in value over the same period in 2024. This figure exceeds Cambodia’s full-year export value to Vietnam in 2024 ($1.07 billion) and ranks second only to the peak recorded in 2021 ($1.87 billion). Cambodian cashews now make up nearly 63% of Vietnam’s total cashew import value. 

🌍 Cambodia Emerges as a Global Cashew Powerhouse

 Industry experts highlight Cambodia’s rise as the world’s second-largest raw cashew producer, with an estimated 850,000 tons of output in 2024. The country is currently in the midst of its harvest season, offering a steady and abundant supply. Vietnamese companies are taking advantage of this opportunity, largely due to the logistical advantages. Transporting cashews from Cambodia takes just one to two days, with significantly lower costs than maritime shipping from Africa or India. In return, Cambodian suppliers benefit from quick payment cycles, often receiving funds within 24–48 hours, creating a mutually beneficial trade dynamic. 

Conclusion:

Vietnam’s reliance on Cambodian cashews underscores both nations' growing interdependence in the agri-trade sector. While exports remain strong, the increasing import volume and value point to shifting dynamics in global supply chains and cost structures that industry leaders will closely monitor in the months ahead. 

Follow & Subscribe:

👉 Agri-Food Update on LinkedIn for the latest updates and insights.

🌐 Visit us at www.agri-food-update.com for more information!