Cambodia’s Kampong Thom, PPSEZ sign deal to build new investment gateway

OSAKA, June 15, 2026 (KPT) — Kampong Thom province and Royal Group Phnom Penh SEZ have signed a joint venture to develop a new special economic zone, aiming to create a major investment gateway in central Cambodia and accelerate the province’s industrial transition, officials said Friday.

The agreement for the Kampong Thom SEZ was inked on the sidelines of the Cambodia Investment Forum 2026 at the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, witnessed by Governor Nuon Pharath, PPSEZ chief executive Hiroshi Uematsu and government advisor Dr. Mey Kalyan.

The project marks a milestone in Kampong Thom’s strategy to attract new investment and promote agro‑processing industries by leveraging the province’s abundant agricultural resources, including rice and cashew nuts. Uematsu said the partnership was driven by the provincial administration’s strong commitment to investment promotion and its grasp of SEZ management.

He described the new zone as more than an industrial estate, but a comprehensive business platform offering investor support from market entry and factory establishment to long‑term expansion. Drawing on Phnom Penh SEZ’s experience, the project will provide services ranging from administrative procedures and human resources to infrastructure and operational management.

Targeted sectors include agro‑processing and food‑processing, viewed as natural strengths of Kampong Thom. Officials believe the SEZ will appeal to Japanese and other foreign SMEs seeking to expand into Cambodia’s provincial markets.

Dr. Kalyan said the initiative reflects untapped provincial potential, adding that once operational the zone will create jobs, strengthen supply chains and position Kampong Thom as a new hub for industrial growth.