(Sihanoukville): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet called for stronger integration between inland ports and seaports to enhance Cambodia’s agricultural exports and reduce logistics costs.

Speaking on Friday (May 1) at a ceremony marking the 140th anniversary of International Workers’ Day and 30 years of the cooperation between Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, the premier highlighted water transport as the most cost-effective mode for moving goods compared to rail, road, or air.

He underscored that inland and maritime ports should operate as an integrated network rather than competitors, enabling smoother trade flows and improving access for Cambodian agricultural products to global markets.

Samdech Thipadei also expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Japan and JICA for their continued support in developing Cambodia’s infrastructure, particularly the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port.

The prime minister also announced progress on a 600-hectare cashew industrial park in Kampong Thom Province, aimed at boosting domestic processing and adding value to exports. He noted that the province was selected for its strategic location near river transport routes, providing efficient access to the Kampong Chhnang multipurpose port.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet remarked that developing ports and interconnected waterways will not merely benefit logistics companies or maximize port revenues. Instead, it will enhance competitiveness in the cashew, rice, and other industries by reducing costs. He noted that water transport is more economical than rail transport.

According to Fresh AI Kampong Thom accounts for around 30% of Cambodia’s cashew production, making it a strong candidate for the country’s first processing hub. The project has also drawn interest from a Korean delegation currently conducting feasibility studies for further development.
=FRESH NEWS