Cambodia Coffee: B2B Import Guide for Southeast Asian Origin

Cambodia coffee production has emerged as a compelling opportunity for B2B importers seeking diversification in Southeast Asian origins. With annual output reaching 35,000 tons in 2023, up from 15,000 tons in 2010, this market offers competitive pricing and improving quality standards. The country's highland regions produce predominantly Robusta varieties alongside emerging Arabica cultivation, positioning Cambodia coffee as an attractive alternative to traditional Vietnam coffee and Thailand coffee sources.

Growing Regions and Terroir Characteristics

Cambodia coffee cultivation concentrates in eastern highland provinces where volcanic soils and tropical monsoon climate create optimal growing conditions. Mondulkiri Province accounts for 60% of national production, with smallholder farmers managing 2-3 hectare plots at elevations from 800 to 1,200 meters. Ratanakiri Province contributes 25% of output, distinguished by red basalt soils producing full-bodied characteristics ideal for commercial blends.

Kratie and Stung Treng provinces represent emerging cultivation areas supported by government agricultural programs. These regions show strong potential for organic certification and sustainable farming practices, appealing to European importers prioritizing ethical sourcing requirements.

Variety Profile and Processing Infrastructure

Robusta varieties dominate Cambodia coffee production at 85% of total output, featuring CaTimor and Catimor cultivars with excellent disease resistance. These varieties yield 1.2-1.8 tons per hectare under optimal management, providing consistent supply volumes for commercial importers. Arabica cultivation represents 15% of production, primarily Bourbon and Typica varieties achieving cup scores of 82-85 points in specialty evaluations.

Processing infrastructure includes both wet and dry methods, with increasing investment in washed processing facilities through cooperative structures. This enables smallholder farmers to access centralized equipment, improving consistency and traceability for export markets.

Export Logistics and Trade Dynamics

Cambodia coffee exports reached 18,000 tons in 2023, representing 51% of domestic production. Primary destinations include Vietnam (45%), Thailand (25%), and direct European trade relationships (15%). Sihanoukville Port serves as the main export gateway, offering container connections to global markets with improved road infrastructure reducing transportation costs by 20% since 2020.

Export pricing ranges from $1,800-2,200 per ton FOB for commercial Robusta grades, while specialty Arabica commands $3,500-4,500 per ton. These competitive price points position Cambodia coffee favorably against regional competitors, particularly for importers seeking cost-effective diversification strategies.

Quality Standards and Certification Programs

Cambodia coffee quality improvements reflect increased focus on post-harvest processing and storage practices. Government extension services provide technical training on moisture content management and defect reduction aligned with international specifications. Organic certification programs show growing adoption, with 12% of production areas transitioning to certified organic status.

Rainforest Alliance and UTZ certification initiatives support sustainable farming practices while meeting European market requirements. Cupping profiles demonstrate chocolate and nutty flavor notes in Robusta varieties, with Arabica lots showing bright acidity and floral characteristics suitable for specialty applications.

Import Considerations and Market Positioning

Cambodia coffee offers B2B importers strategic advantages including competitive pricing, improving quality trajectories, and political stability supporting long-term relationships. Seasonal availability patterns feature main harvest from November through February, with container loading accommodating 19-20 tons per 20-foot container at 12-13% moisture content.

Due diligence requirements include verification of export licenses, quality certificates, and traceability documentation. Establishing relationships with established exporters or cooperative structures provides access to consistent volumes and quality assurance protocols essential for commercial success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main Cambodia coffee varieties available for import?

Cambodia produces primarily Robusta varieties (85%) including CaTimor and Catimor cultivars, with Arabica varieties like Bourbon and Typica comprising 15% of production at higher elevations.

How does Cambodia coffee pricing compare to regional origins?

Commercial Robusta grades range from $1,800-2,200 per ton FOB, while specialty Arabica lots command $3,500-4,500 per ton, offering competitive pricing compared to Vietnam and Thailand origins.

Which provinces produce the highest quality Cambodia coffee?

Mondulkiri Province accounts for 60% of national production with optimal growing conditions, while Ratanakiri Province contributes 25% with distinctive red basalt soils producing full-bodied cup characteristics.