Sihanoukville Investment Team Eyes Koh Rong as Global Tourism Hub

PHNOM PENH, June 5, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s Sihanoukville investment promotion working group has reviewed 15 new projects worth more than $39 million and discussed strategies to transform Koh Rong city into a world‑class tourism destination.

The 25th meeting, chaired by senior government adviser Hang Sahib at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, examined proposals ranging from wind turbine assembly and parquet production plants to multi‑purpose buildings, a night market and resort developments. Officials said the projects could generate about 1,000 jobs.

Hang Sahib told participants that investment promotion must combine incentive packages with streamlined procedures, investor support and problem‑solving. He urged ministries and provincial authorities to continue implementing government measures, including skills training, use of local inputs and industrial linkages with high added value.

The meeting also reviewed studies on island development models abroad and Koh Rong’s potential, with proposals for additional measures to attract investment under Sihanoukville’s special programme. Officials said the goal is to position Koh Rong as a major international destination focused on eco‑tourism, high‑end hospitality and health tourism.

Koh Rong covers 11,323 hectares with 61 kilometres of coastline, including 43 kilometres of sandy beaches. It was ranked ninth among the world’s 50 best beaches in 2026. Infrastructure includes road networks, a planned 4C‑level airport and an undersea power grid.

Hang Sahib said Cambodia’s island tourism sector retains vast investment potential as visitor numbers rise, especially from Europe. He stressed the need for clear, comprehensive planning to boost Koh Rong’s appeal, resolve stalled construction projects and link the city to other destinations.

He praised the commitment of ministries and agencies in improving Sihanoukville’s investment climate, calling for transparent and effective implementation of incentives. He urged continued cooperation to advance development under the government’s “single actor system” and “supreme ideal” of shared benefits.

Hang Sahib added that global and domestic changes pose challenges as well as opportunities, requiring the working group to act proactively and consistently to strengthen Sihanoukville’s business environment and contribute to Cambodia’s socio‑economic growth.