Japan increases grant aid to expand water supply in Cambodia’s Ta Khmau

PHNOM PENH, Mar 19, 2026 (KPT) — Japan has increased its grant assistance for a major water infrastructure project in Ta Khmau, reinforcing its role as a key development partner for Cambodia, officials said Thursday.

The additional funding was formalized through the signing of an Exchange of Notes between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Japanese Ambassador Ueno Atsushi. Under the revised agreement, the grant for the “Expansion of the Water Supply System in Ta Khmau” has been raised from JPY 3.421 billion (about USD 22 million) to JPY 3.568 billion (about USD 23 million).

Originally signed in March 2020, the project aims to improve access to clean and reliable water in Ta Khmau, a rapidly growing urban area south of Phnom Penh. Officials said the increased support will enhance capacity to meet rising demand driven by population growth and urbanization, while strengthening resilience against water shortages.

Prak Sokhonn welcomed the additional assistance, noting it reflects Japan’s long standing commitment to Cambodia’s socio economic development. He said the project will directly benefit households and businesses, improving public health and supporting urban expansion.

Ambassador Ueno stressed Japan’s continued partnership with Cambodia in infrastructure and public service delivery, highlighting water supply as essential to sustainable growth.

Officials added that the project underscores broader cooperation under the Japan–Cambodia partnership, which has supported education, health, and connectivity initiatives. The expansion in Ta Khmau is expected to serve as a model for future urban water projects across the country.