The relationship between Cambodia and the United States has been shaped by both cooperation and contention, influenced by the region’s dynamic geopolitical landscape. Cambodia’s increasing ties with China, combined with its strategic importance to U.S. regional security, continue to mold the future of their diplomatic and economic relations. At the same time, Cambodia’s growing domestic political challenges complicate this trajectory.
A Fractured Historical Relationship
Cambodia’s connection with the United States has been defined by a tumultuous history, deeply rooted in the events of the 20th century. Following independence from France in 1953, Cambodia initially aligned with the U.S. during the Cold War. However, relations deteriorated dramatically during the Khmer Rouge’s rise to power in 1975. The genocidal regime, responsible for the deaths of over 1.7 million people, saw the U.S. distance itself from Cambodia during this period.
After the Khmer Rouge was overthrown in 1979 by Vietnamese forces, the U.S. supported anti-Vietnamese factions in Cambodia, further complicating the bilateral relationship. Yet, the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements, which ended Cambodia’s civil war, marked the beginning of a slow recovery in ties. The establishment of a democratic framework with the 1993 restoration of the monarchy set the stage for renewed engagement, though challenges related to human rights and governance have continued to affect their relationship.
Cambodia’s Growing Alignment with China
Today, Cambodia’s foreign policy increasingly aligns with China, raising concerns in Washington. Over the past decade, China has emerged as Cambodia’s largest economic partner, investing billions in infrastructure projects, trade agreements, and, notably, the Ream Naval Base renovation. This expansion of the naval base has alarmed the U.S., which fears it may ultimately serve as a military outpost for China, enhancing Beijing’s presence in Southeast Asia. While Cambodia maintains that it upholds neutrality, the growing influence of China in the region cannot be ignored by the U.S. (Washington Post).
More than 30 bilateral agreements have been signed between Cambodia and China, covering sectors like infrastructure, trade, and defense. These agreements are framed as mutually beneficial, but they signal Cambodia’s increasing reliance on China. China has funded a wide array of development projects in Cambodia, from highways to ports. Despite this, Cambodia continues to seek foreign investment from the U.S., Japan, and South Korea. Nevertheless, it is clear that China’s influence is expanding.
U.S.-Cambodia Relations Today: Strategic Engagement with Challenges
Despite Cambodia’s pivot toward China, the U.S. has not abandoned its efforts to maintain a relationship with the country. Positive signs include the visit of U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to Cambodia in early 2025, marking the first such visit in years. Additionally, a U.S. Navy warship made a port call to Cambodia after an eight-year hiatus, symbolizing a thaw in military relations between the two countries (AP News). These efforts reflect the U.S.’s desire to maintain a strategic presence in Southeast Asia, counteracting China’s growing influence.
However, the relationship remains strained. Cambodia’s domestic political climate, marked by the suppression of opposition parties and curbed civil liberties, continues to be a point of contention. The U.S. has frequently criticized the Hun Sen regime’s authoritarian practices, imposing sanctions on individuals and entities tied to the government. While Cambodia remains open to U.S. economic and military cooperation, its political environment poses a persistent challenge to a deeper partnership, with Washington urging improvements in democracy and human rights (U.S. Embassy).
Economic Ties: Trade and Investment Dynamics
The U.S. and Cambodia maintain a growing but complicated economic relationship. Cambodia’s textile and garment industry, one of the largest exporters to the U.S., plays a vital role in its economy. In 2024, bilateral trade surpassed $4 billion, primarily driven by Cambodian exports of textiles, footwear, and agricultural products. However, Cambodia’s increasing economic dependence on China, particularly in trade, raises concerns about its long-term economic independence.
The U.S. has also raised issues over the trade imbalance, particularly over tariffs imposed on solar panels from Cambodia and other Southeast Asian nations. This dispute has exacerbated tensions, as Cambodia’s manufacturing sector relies heavily on U.S. exports. The trade imbalances, combined with Cambodia’s growing ties with China, make the future of their economic relationship uncertain. Nevertheless, the U.S. continues to invest in Cambodia’s development, particularly in sectors like health and education (Reuters).
Looking Ahead: The Future of U.S.-Cambodia Relations
Looking ahead, the trajectory of U.S.-Cambodia relations will hinge on several key factors, including Cambodia’s foreign policy balance, its internal political reforms, and its role in regional security.
- Foreign Policy Balance: Cambodia must carefully navigate its relationships with both the U.S. and China. It faces the challenge of managing its growing dependence on China while maintaining ties with Western powers. The country’s ability to maintain neutrality in its foreign policy will be tested as China and the U.S. both vie for closer ties.
- Domestic Political Reform: The U.S. will continue to pressure Cambodia to improve its political environment. The upcoming 2027 elections will be a critical moment for Cambodia’s democratic future and will likely influence the direction of its relationship with the U.S.
- Regional Security: The U.S. will closely monitor Cambodia’s military ties with China, particularly in light of the Ream Naval Base expansion. Security concerns in the South China Sea and broader regional stability will remain key priorities for Washington.
In conclusion, U.S.-Cambodia relations are evolving amid a backdrop of historical tensions and geopolitical challenges. Despite Cambodia’s increasing alignment with China, both countries share a common interest in maintaining regional stability, fostering economic growth, and cooperating on security. The future of their relationship will depend on Cambodia’s ability to balance its ties with China, pursue internal political reforms, and continue engaging with the U.S. Only time will reveal whether Cambodia can maintain its position of neutrality or further tilt toward China at the expense of its relationship with the U.S.
