PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Chinese President Xi Jinping wrapped up a two-day state visit to Cambodia on Friday, marking the conclusion of his tour across three Southeast Asian nations. This visit aimed to showcase China’s commitment as a reliable ally in the region amidst rising economic concerns prompted by tariff measures suggested by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Over the last ten years, China has been expanding its influence throughout Southeast Asia, largely leveraging its economic strength. As Trump’s tariffs seem to challenge the export-based economies of these countries — for many of which the U.S. serves as the primary market — China portrays itself as a stable and trustworthy partner.
Cambodia is among the nations facing the most significant reciprocal tariffs proposed by the United States. In addition to the standard 10% tariff announced by Trump, Cambodia could see tariffs on its exports to the U.S. soar to 49% after the expiry of a 90-day pause. Vietnam faces the possibility of a 46% tariff, while Malaysia could be subjected to a 24% tariff.
Xi’s visit took on added significance in light of the U.S. tariff announcements, which stirred controlled unease in Cambodia and Vietnam and unrest in Malaysia. Astrid Norén-Nilsson, a senior lecturer specializing in Contemporary South-East Asia at Sweden’s Lund University, commented that the timing was particularly advantageous for China amid these developments, allowing Xi to position himself as a steadfast friend and consistent trading partner.
During his time in Vietnam and Malaysia, Xi highlighted the importance of enhancing ties, especially in trade and investment, against the backdrop of global economic challenges and trade frictions with the United States. He stressed the necessity of standing against unilateral actions and protectionist policies while supporting a multilateral trading system.
However, a statement released by Cambodia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry barely addressed the trade crisis, focusing more on the strength of bilateral relations. The statement emphasized the solid foundation of the Cambodia-China relationship, highlighting the reinforced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and win-win cooperation between the nations.
While in Cambodia, Xi was granted an audience with King Norodom Sihamoni and held discussions with Prime Minister Hun Manet and Senate President Hun Sen, Hun Manet’s father and predecessor. This visit marked Xi’s first trip to Cambodia since 2016. During the meetings, Xi and Hun Manet oversaw the signing of 37 documents related to various fields including investment, trade, education, and more.
In recent decades, Cambodia’s growth has been significantly fueled by investments from Beijing. China has ranked as Cambodia’s largest trading partner for 13 consecutive years, with trade in 2024 valued at $17.83 billion, heavily favoring China. Concurrently, China has been the largest foreign investor and a substantial aid donor for Cambodia during the same period.
China’s robust support enables Cambodia to largely ignore Western criticism regarding its government’s human rights activities and its suppression of political dissent. Cambodia generally aligns with China on contentious issues like China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea.
The Cambodian Foreign Ministry reiterated its commitment to the one-China policy, affirming that Taiwan is an inseparable segment of Chinese territory and opposing any external interference in China’s internal matters, referencing Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Regarding social and developmental matters, the statement drew a subtle comparison to U.S. positions, recognizing the global climate change threat and committing to environmental protection and clean energy initiatives. Additionally, it appreciated China’s assistance in clearing land mines from past conflicts and cooperation in the healthcare sector, areas affected by cuts in U.S. foreign aid.
The discussion also covered further bolstering cooperation between the military forces of both countries. China has assisted in expanding the naval base at Ream, sparking concerns that it could evolve into a strategic Chinese naval post in the Gulf of Thailand. However, the statement did not address these concerns. Cambodia has consistently denied granting China special privileges or allowing a foreign military base within its territory.
Cambodia has stated its willingness to welcome warships from all friendly nations at its newly constructed pier, provided they adhere to specified conditions. Japan recently announced that two of its minesweepers will visit the Ream base, marking the first visit by a foreign navy since completing the base’s expansion.