Prime Minister Hun Manet yesterday unveiled a five-year master plan for the development of the international port infrastructure and logistics in Preah Sihanouk province with a
$1 billion budget.
He said that while there are several other ports in Kampot and Koh Kong provinces, the international port in Sihanoukville remains Cambodia’s primary gateway for overseas shipping. “It is the leading deep-sea port capable of accommodating all types of cargo ships in the future.”
Presiding over the official inauguration ceremony of the new buildings of the Hun Sen Veal Renh High School in Veal Renh district, Mr Hun Manet underscored the strategic importance of a major coastal hub for economic growth.
Congratulating the school management on its achievements, the Prime Minister emphasised that the institution not only educates the current generation but also does a great service to future generations.
Making a special reference to creating a strong human capital, Mr Hun Manet said, “The development of human resources is essential for Preah Sihanouk, as this coastal province holds immense potential. It is a crucial task.”
Pointing to broad examples, he said, globally, coastal areas with ports tend to have significant economic potential, citing California’s economy, which ranks among the top seven or eight in the world.
Also, he highlighted the economic development of Shanghai, one of the world’s largest cities, whose growth has been driven by its strategic location on the East China Sea and its strong shipping industry.
On the five-year plan for Sihanoukville province, the Premier said, “Over three phases of development, the Royal Government plans to inject a total budget of $1 billion by 2029. In fact, we have already invested over $200 million in the first phase last year using a concessional loan from Japan.”
“The remaining $600 million will fund the next two phases, demonstrating the government’s strong commitment to Sihanoukville’s development,” he added.
Mr Hun Manet emphasised that the investment is not only for upgrading the deep-sea port but also for developing interconnected logistics infrastructure to enhance connectivity with ports in Vietnam and Thailand.
However, he stressed that achieving these goals requires a skilled workforce, particularly within the province, to maximise the benefits of these opportunities.
The Premier urged the school administration, relevant ministries and institutions in Sihanoukville to collaborate in developing human capital with the necessary skills and expertise to meet labour market demands.
Speaking to Khmer Times, Chey Tech, a socio-economic researcher, expressed support and confidence in the Royal Government’s initiative to increase investment in Cambodia’s major coastal province.
Tech said, “Sihanoukville has significant potential beyond comprehension. Its strategic position among Southeast Asian countries makes it an attractive destination for businesses, while its deep-sea port allows the largest ships to dock, boosting tourism and trade.”
“More importantly, Sihanoukville serves as the Kingdom’s largest industrial hub, with numerous special economic zones (SEZs). In fact, a new SEZ in Prey Nob district is already underway,” he added.
Tech emphasised that investing in Sihanoukville is a wise decision, contributing to the growth of the tourism, industrial, logistics and trade sectors. “Completing the stalled buildings left by Chinese investors is also crucial for improving the province’s image and aesthetic appeal,” he noted.
“These efforts will support Cambodia’s departure from the least developed country (LDC) status by 2029, align with the vision of becoming a middle-income country by 2030 and contribute to the long-term goal of achieving high-income status by 2050,” he said.
