Prior to Cambodia’s recognition of the US sanitary certificate and official acceptance of US meat and poultry product imports, some major importers and retailers were hesitant to stock and promote those US products.

This official recognition by the Cambodian government provides transparency for traders and the potential for increased export sales of US meat and poultry products, as well as greater US food promotion efforts, in the Cambodia market.

Exports of US meat and poultry products to Cambodia are relatively small, but they show potential for substantial growth.

In calendar year (CY) 2012, official US exports of all meat and poultry products totaled USD 1.7 million, up from USD 700,000 in 2010.

From January to August 2013, US meat and poultry exports to Cambodia had already reached USD 1.7 million, with beef and beef products leading with a 99-per cent increase over the same period in 2012.

In general, US food products are highly regarded in Cambodia with respect to quality and food safety.

A wide range of US food products are readily available in several expatriate and high-end grocery stores in Phnom Penh and Siem Riep.

In addition, many high-end restaurants use US meat, poultry, and wines on their menus. Total US consumer oriented exports to Cambodia reached a record of USD 7.7 million in CY 2012, up from USD 5.9 million in 2011.

Total agricultural and agricultural related product exports are expected to reach a record level in CY 2013, forecast to surpass USD 20 million.