Preah Sihanouk: A $50 million Special Economic Zone project promises 7,000 jobs and a new economic boost

The province of Preah Sihanouk is about to undergo a major transformation. An ambitious special economic zone (SEZ) project, with an investment of $50 million, has just been approved for this strategic region in southwestern Cambodia, promising to generate around 7,000 direct jobs.

SLocated on the southern coast of Cambodia, Preah Sihanouk enjoys a privileged geographical position, with direct access to the sea, port facilities undergoing modernisation and an environment conducive to industrial development.

This initiative marks a crucial step in boosting the local and national economy, while attracting foreign investors to a rapidly growing province.

Located on the southern coast of Cambodia, Preah Sihanouk enjoys a privileged geographical position, with direct access to the sea, port infrastructure undergoing modernisation and an environment conducive to industrial development.

The creation of this new special economic zone is therefore part of a clear strategy to capitalise on these natural assets to strengthen the country's competitiveness on the international stage.

This project, financed by a consortium of international investors, aims to build a multifunctional platform to accommodate manufacturing companies, logistics companies and high value-added industries. The investment will not only involve the construction of modern infrastructure, but also the establishment of support services, including vocational training centres, health facilities and residential accommodation for employees. This social component underlines the ambition to make the SEZ a model of economic and social integration.

The Cambodian government, which is at the forefront of this initiative, has hailed the project as a flagship example of its policy of opening up and stimulating the private sector. The Minister of Commerce, H.E. Ms Cham Nimul, said at the announcement ceremony:

‘This special economic zone is more than just an industrial centre, it is a driver of sustainable transformation for a whole generation of Cambodians.’

She also emphasised the importance of these skilled jobs, which will enable young people in Preah Sihanouk to meet the demands of a modern economy while strengthening the local industrial fabric.

The creation of 7,000 jobs, mainly in the manufacturing sector, represents an unparalleled opportunity for regional socio-economic development.

 These diverse jobs should help to significantly reduce unemployment, promote the development of technical skills and increase the purchasing power of Cambodian families. In addition, the influx of workers and their families is likely to boost other sectors in the province, such as commerce, services and education, thereby reinforcing a virtuous circle of growth.

This massive investment is also part of an environmentally friendly and responsible approach. The developers have taken care to incorporate strict environmental standards aimed at minimising the impact on coastal ecosystems and promoting sustainable industrial practices. Particular attention will be paid to waste management, rational water use and carbon emission reduction.

Finally, this project reaffirms Preah Sihanouk's strategic position in Cambodian economic policy. Beyond its historic role as a port and logistics centre, it is now positioning itself as a true hub for industrialisation and innovation. This dynamic is part of the government's long-term vision to make Cambodia a key player in the Asian and global value chain.

The eagerly awaited launch of this special economic zone therefore opens a promising new chapter for the inhabitants of Preah Sihanouk, for international investors and for Cambodia as a whole.