(Phnom Penh): The Royal Government of Cambodia has approved the establishment of a new special economic zone (SEZ) along National Road 51, covering more than 500 hectares across Samraong Tong and Samakki Meanchey districts in Kampong Speu Province. The new development will be known as the Canadia Special Economic Zone on National Road 51.

Special economic zones in Cambodia serve as designated economic hubs where industrial activities are concentrated. These zones are divided into two main types: general industrial zones and export-oriented processing zones.

Under Sub-Decree No. 148, issued in December 2005 on the establishment and management of SEZs, each zone must include production facilities and may also feature free trade centres, service facilities, residential areas, and tourism-related developments.

To attract investors, the Royal Government provides various incentives, including simplified labour regulations, legal benefits, and strategic infrastructure connections to ports, national highways, expressways, airports, and international border crossings.

SEZs are required to provide essential infrastructure and services such as administrative offices, on-site government services, residential facilities, sports and medical services, paved roads, clean water systems, drainage, waste management, electricity supply, telecommunications networks, fire protection, and security systems.

Each zone operates an administrative office that offers on-site services including business registration procedures, export–import documentation, customs processing, and coordination with relevant government authorities, helping streamline operations for investors.

Investment projects registered as Qualified Investment Projects (QIP) with the Council for the Development of Cambodia are eligible for additional incentives, particularly when operating within SEZs.

According to Cambodia’s 2024 report, the country has 30 special economic zones across 12 provinces and municipalities. These include 9 zones in Svay Rieng Province, 5 in Preah Sihanouk Province, and 3 each in Banteay Meanchey, Koh Kong, and Kampong Thom. One SEZ is located in Phnom Penh, while Pursat, Kratie, Kampot, Kampong Speu, Kampong Chhnang, and Kampong Cham each host one zone.
=FRESH NEWS