Under the government’s long-term master plan, the province is being developed over a 15-year period as a national development pole and international gateway, with a vision running through 2040. The plan is ambitious in scope. It positions Preah Sihanouk not only as an international trade and logistics center, but also as an international multi-modal transport hub, a center for industrial development, a coastal tourism destination and a future smart and sustainable city. In the nearer term, the 2025 to 2030 phase focuses on integrating the province more deeply into regional trade, expanding logistics and tourism capacity, and upgrading urban areas.  

The next phase of port development is therefore critical. The expansion of the new container terminal is designed to increase handling capacity to 2.6 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent unit) a year by 2030. The deeper new phases are intended to accommodate much larger vessels and, over time, support more direct shipping links between Cambodia and major markets in the Asia-Pacific, Europe and the United States, reducing both transit time and logistics costs. As supply chains continue to diversify across Southeast Asia, the combination of port capacity, special economic zones and lower operating costs is what begins to turn the region into a manufacturing and export platform.  

The connectivity picture is also improving beyond the port itself. The 187-kilometer Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, Cambodia’s first freeway, has cut travel time between the capital and the coast from more than five hours to under two, changing the economics of freight, tourism and domestic mobility. In this interview, Governor of Preah Sihanouk Province Mang Sineth outlines his vision for sustainable development, investor confidence and deeper regional integration. 

Q: What are your priorities for ASEAN integration? 

H.E. Mang Sineth, Governor of Preah Sihanouk Province: Our foremost priority is strengthening regional connectivity. We are improving cost-efficient logistics, modern infrastructure and competitive business conditions so the province can integrate more deeply into ASEAN supply chains. Logistics, tourism and industry form the backbone of our attraction strategy, and we aim to make Preah Sihanouk a seamless gateway for both investors and travelers.

The province has significant geographical advantages, development potential and abundant investment opportunities. I urge investors and business delegations from other nations to visit the province to personally assess its investment readiness and potential. Preah Sihanouk has dedication to fostering a transparent, efficient and investor-friendly environment. The provincial administration is committed to ensuring streamlined procedures, legal clarity and robust public services to support business operations. Security and investor protection remain paramount priorities. Our vision is simple. The success of our investors is the success of our province.

Q: Why is the port expansion so important? 

MS: The port expansion is a catalyst for our entire economy. It will increase cargo capacity, support major industrial parks and strengthen our position as a logistics and manufacturing hub. The project also complements tourism development and supports the creation of a multi-purpose Special Economic Zone. This is how we become a premier port hub for ASEAN. 

Q: What drives your long-term growth vision? 

MS: Our 2025–2038 plan focuses on building industrial clusters, modern food-processing ventures, high-tech manufacturing and a diversified tourism sector. We want growth that is modern, sustainable and inclusive—balancing economic expansion with environmental protection and community wellbeing. 

Q: How are you attracting investors into priority sectors? 

MS: We are implementing investor-friendly policies, with incentives and streamlined procedures. Public-private partnerships, a proactive investment promotion strategy and successful pilot projects all help build confidence. Our goal is to remove obstacles, accelerate permitting and provide a clear, predictable environment for investors. 

Q: How are you restoring trust and ensuring safety? 

MS: Transparency and good governance are essential. We work closely with communities, provide accurate information through modern communication channels and enforce strong monitoring mechanisms against misinformation. Safety, public confidence and clear communication are at the heart of our approach.

Q: How are you growing international tourism? 

MS: We are engaging with airlines to increase direct flights and improve airport capacity. At the same time, we are promoting the province globally and partnering with tour operators. With beautiful beaches, cultural heritage and world-class hospitality, tourism remains a major growth engine. 

Q: Why should global investors consider your province? 

MS: Now is a moment of opportunity. We have strong infrastructure, supportive policies and a clear long-term strategy. The province is safe, stable and committed to sustainable development. We welcome investors who want to be part of Cambodia’s next phase of growth.

We have simplified administrative procedures and reduced bureaucratic barriers. A one-stop service center provides full support—from permits and licenses to ongoing business facilitation. We are here to help investors succeed.