Cambodia is emerging as a promising alternative supplier in the women’s cotton trousers and shorts market, ranking fifth with a Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) of 20.34. Its Unit Value Realization (UVR) of $14.53/kg positions the country well for mid-range price segments, similar to Bangladesh and lower than Vietnam’s, enabling it to compete effectively on price. With US exports totaling $324.67 million and no tariffs imposed on its products, Cambodia is well-placed to benefit from the growing global demand for diversified sourcing. However, its lower Logistics Performance Index (LPI) relative to Bangladesh could limit its capacity to fully capitalize on shifting market dynamics as China’s competitiveness diminishes.
In the broader market landscape, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Cambodia exhibit high RCA scores, underscoring their strong competitive edge in the women’s cotton trousers and shorts segment. These countries benefit from low production costs and tariff-free access to the US market, giving them a significant advantage. By contrast, Vietnam and China show lower RCA scores, indicating a relatively weaker competitive position. Vietnam has differentiated itself as a supplier of higher-value garments that appeal to quality-focused buyers, while China, historically competitive due to a low UVR, now faces rising landed costs from tariff hikes.
The imposition of tariffs on Chinese exports—raising the landed cost by at least 20 percent—is prompting US buyers to reassess their sourcing strategies. This shift is likely to benefit alternative suppliers like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Cambodia, reshaping the competitive landscape in favor of those with cost advantages and robust market access. As global sourcing evolves, Cambodia’s growing role could be pivotal in the ongoing transformation of the market, reinforcing its position as a key supplier amid heightened competition and changing trade policies.
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