Cambodia’s exports to Japan increased sharply by 39 per cent over the first three months of 2014 compared to the same period last year, according to data from the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).

Total exports reached more than $178 million at the end of March, compared to $128 million for the first quarter of 2013.

“It clearly shows the success through the relationship between the two countries,” Hiroshi Suzuki, CEO of the Business Research Institute for Cambodia, said.

Suzuki said that while the majority of exports were garment products, the shipment of electronics was also on the rise, led in part by recent Japanese investment in Cambodian manufacturing.

“So far, the main export destinations are US and EU. However, now Japan could be one of the important export destinations not only for the garment sector but also for parts industry under good supply chain systems among Asian countries,” Suzuki added.