Cambodia’s Funan Techo Canal Project to Begin Excavation by Early December

PHNOM PENH (Nov. 20, 2025) — Cambodia’s Ministry of Public Works and Transport said the Funan Techo Canal project will officially begin excavation work by late November or early December, depending on water levels.

Ministry spokesman Phorn Rim told KPT English that machinery will be deployed once seasonal rains subside. “Construction is on schedule. We’ll begin as soon as water levels drop,” he said.

Officials will inspect progress and visit the CRBC construction sites along the canal corridor later this month. The project is currently in the surveying and resettlement phase, led by the Ministry of Economy and Finance in coordination with technical teams, land authorities, and affected communities.

Resettlement teams are active in Kandal Province, conducting surveys and consultations with residents in Koh Thom District. Fingerprint registration and public forums have been held to ensure transparency.

Rim described the canal as a historic transformation for Cambodia’s inland and maritime transport. Designed for vessels up to 3,000 DWT, the canal will span four provinces—Kandal, Takeo, Kampot, and Kep—and connect the Mekong River to the sea.

The canal is expected to reduce shipping costs, improve competitiveness, and strengthen Cambodia’s transport independence. Official groundbreaking was held Aug. 5, 2024, under Prime Minister Hun Manet. Completion is projected by 2028.