Deputy Prime Minister and CDC First Vice-Chairman Sun Chanthol recently led a delegation to evaluate the developments at the Stung Bot international gateway, which serves as a conduit to Thailand, and to assess the operational companies within Banteay Meanchey province’s special economic zones (SEZs).
A press release from the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) indicated that the Cambodian segment of the international gateway was completed in August of the previous year, allowing for the transit of goods and products. The official inauguration of this gateway is pending, awaiting the completion of the corresponding infrastructure on the Thai side.
This inspection follows the 27th meeting of the Cambodia-Japan Joint Committee, which took place in mid-February, aiming to facilitate progress on the construction of the Stung Bot-Ban Nong Ian International Border with the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The visit included Banteay Meanchey’s provincial governor, leaders from various ministries, project construction specialists, and JICA representatives in Cambodia.
Chanthol discussed the importance of this gateway for easing the transportation of goods, particularly at the Bavet and Poipet borders, emphasizing that Cambodia has fulfilled its infrastructure obligations and is awaiting Thailand’s completion. Additionally, he mentioned a $10 million investment by the Ministry of Economy and Finance to enhance road and facility infrastructure at the Bavet border to alleviate congestion.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted Cambodia’s efforts to attract Japanese investment, referencing Prime Minister Hun Manet’s request to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for the establishment of a Cambodia-Japan SEZ during a visit to Japan in December.
Following the gateway inspection, Chanthol toured the Sanko Poipet SEZ and Royal Group Poipet SEZ, where he visited several factories, including Nidec Die-Casting (Cambodia) Co Ltd, NHK Spring (Cambodia) Co Ltd, and HGB Motors Assembly Co Ltd, noting their contributions to local employment and the economy.
The CDC reported that out of the four SEZs in Banteay Meanchey, 19 projects are operational with a combined investment of $126 million, significantly benefiting the local workforce.
Chanthol also shared news of Minebea Cambodia’s plans to establish a second factory in Pursat province, representing a substantial $650 million investment expected to create around 8,000 jobs by 2030, showcasing the ongoing expansion and potential of Cambodia’s industrial sector.
Source: Khmer Times
