Sihanoukville set for model economic, tourism makeover

Sihanoukville set for model economic, tourism makeover

The strategic blueprint aims to position the coastal province as a premier international hub for global business and leisure travellers.

Cambodia is reshaping Sihanoukville into a model multi-purpose economic and tourism city. Known as the ‘Rising Star of the Southwest,’ the province is maximising its coastal geography to attract fresh commercial investments and drive sustainable marine tourism.

The commitment was highlighted during the official launch of the Sihanoukville Province Tourism Development Plan 2026-2030 on Monday at the Independence Hotel.

Co-presided over by Tourism Minister Huot Hak and Sihanoukville Governor Mang Sineth, the event drew participants including senior Ministry of Tourism officials, provincial department heads, local authorities, armed forces members, tourism operators, educators, and content creators.

According to a Ministry of Tourism press statement, the master plan establishes a comprehensive roadmap to unite stakeholders in elevating the province’s tourism sector.

The ultimate goal is to transform Sihanoukville into a world-class leisure and business destination that is highly competitive on both regional and international stages.

The statement adds that the plan anchors Sihanoukville as Cambodia’s second urban core, prioritising regional economic success, smart-city innovation, and sustainable urbanisation.

Speaking at the launch event, Hak said that rapid infrastructure development, alongside steady improvements to the city’s coastline and public spaces, significantly enhances Sihanoukville’s appeal to both domestic and international travellers.

He went on to add that the coastal destination holds vast potential for nature-based tourism, driven by its scenic beaches, diverse islands, rich ecosystems, marine life, and Ream National Park.

These sites have high potential for the development of coastal, island, and eco-tourism, as well as water sports. The province also has a well-connected infrastructure network, including the Phnom Penh–Sihanoukville Expressway, a deep-water seaport, and an international airport, alongside a full range of business facilities and tourism services.

Hak said, “Amid intensifying regional tourism competition and evolving tourist behaviours, Cambodia must, in addition to leveraging existing potential, continue to develop new tourism products, enhance service quality, boost appeal, and improve cleanliness.”

Security and safety strengthening for tourists is also crucial to ensure that the province can attract more tourists and keep pace with the era of digital technology and artificial intelligence, maintaining its competitiveness against major tourism destinations both regionally and globally, he added.

To support tourism growth, all stakeholders, including domestic and foreign private sectors, media networks, content creators, influencers, Key Opinion Leaders, as well as every individual, both local and foreign, must work together for this common goal, he stressed.

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