Cambodia eyes coastal economic corridor to spur growth, new jobs

Cambodia eyes coastal economic corridor to spur growth, new jobs

The Secretariat General of the National Committee for Cambodia Coastal Management and Development (NCMD) is pushing ahead with a strategic review of priority projects aimed at transforming Cambodia’s coastal region into a dynamic economic corridor aligned with its full development potential.

The initiative, which seeks to turn the Kingdom’s coastline into a hub of economic activity, job creation, and sustainable development, was the focus of a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Say Samal, Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction and Chairman of NCMD, last week.

“Our aim is to ensure that the people living in coastal provinces experience tangible improvements—not just promises, but concrete actions,” said DPM Samal.

“This vision is in line with the sacred aspirations of the Head of the Royal Government: for our citizens to live in peace, with their families, with enough food, stable incomes, good health, and a clean environment.”

He further highlighted the importance of human capital in the transformation process, emphasizing that the coastal areas must be home to knowledgeable and skilled individuals who can attract and support investments.

The meeting saw NCMD members discuss infrastructure needs, including water supply, electricity, and road networks, while identifying priority projects that would support inclusive development across the four coastal provinces: Koh Kong, Kampot, Kep, and Preah Sihanouk.

The Deputy Prime Minister called for a shared vision among all stakeholders and urged provincial administrations and relevant ministries to work together in promoting tourism, trade, and investments while preserving the natural and cultural richness of the coastline.

In January, the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction tasked NCMD with drafting a unified development plan to integrate Cambodia’s coastal provinces into a single economic corridor.

The plan is intended to harness the region’s potential—pristine beaches, rich biodiversity, and vibrant fishing communities—while balancing conservation with sustainable economic growth.

“Our coastal areas are not only vital for tourism and investment, but they are also strategic assets for national development,” Samal noted.

“This initiative will open new opportunities for the people, stimulate local economies, and ensure that growth is inclusive and sustainable.”

Cambodia’s coastal zone has long been viewed as a cornerstone of the country’s economic future, and with renewed government focus, stakeholders hope the transformation into an economic corridor will soon become a reality.

khmertimeskh