High-level meeting between the Ministry of Public Works and Japanese experts outlines priority actions to evolve the nation’s deep-sea gateway into a premier regional logistics hub
Cambodia is taking decisive steps to modernize its maritime infrastructure through a strategic partnership with Japanese technical experts, aiming to elevate the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port into a major regional logistics center. On the morning of Monday, January 26, 2026, Koy Sodany, Permanent Secretary of State at the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, led a high-level meeting to discuss the development of the master plan for this ambitious transformation. The session included a delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and technical consultants from the Overseas Coastal Area Development Institute of Japan (OCDI), headed by Mr. Koichi Miyake.
The primary focus of the discussion was to review and refine priority tasks and action plans essential for converting the port into a competitive regional gateway by increasing container capacity, allowing container ships to carry up to 15,000 TEUs. This development aligns with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s long-term vision to enhance national logistics efficiency and reduce shipping costs to attract more international investment. The master plan specifically addresses logistical bottlenecks and outlines technological and structural solutions to optimize cargo handling and storage capacity.
During the meeting, the participants examined technical solutions for the port’s physical expansion, including the development of new container terminals and specialized logistics zones that can accommodate larger international vessels. The Japanese delegation shared expertise on integrating modern management systems to ensure that the port meets international safety and operational standards. This collaboration is a cornerstone of the broader Cambodia-Japan Economic Co-Creation Package, which prioritizes the modernization of key infrastructure to support the Kingdom’s industrial growth.
By fostering a closer synergy between Cambodian authorities and Japanese experts, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport aims to finalize a roadmap that balances rapid economic development with sustainable environmental practices at the port. As the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port evolves, it is expected to serve as a vital engine for economic diversification, bridging Cambodia’s trade routes with global markets more effectively than ever before.
Meanwhile, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Japan Oversea Coastal Development Institute (OCDI), and representatives from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport also continued to meet with the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, a relevant expert authority, to discuss and urge to resolve the impacts with residents who have occupied land and houses that are illegal constructions within the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port development project area, with the aim of accelerating the process of transforming Sihanoukville Port into a regional port and logistics center set forth in the master plan.
Recently, a delegation from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) also met with the head of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to express their willingness and to promote progress on the Sihanoukville Logistics Center (SHV-LC) project. (Read more)
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Joint Coordinating Committee identifies four priority pillars to modernize the Kingdom’s deep-sea gateway and enhance regional connectivity Cambodia and Japan have reached a landmark agreement on four strategic pillars to accelerate the development of the Sihanoukville Port Master Plan. This cooperation aims to swiftly transform the facility into a world-class regional port and logistics center. […]
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