Cambodia, EU Hold 5th Public-Private Sector Dialogue as Sihanoukville Port Expansion Promises 30% Cost Cut

Phnom Penh, November 4, 2026: Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) H.E. Sun Chanthol co-chaired the 5th Cambodia-Europe Public and Private Sector Dialogue with H.E. Igor Driesmans, Ambassador and Head of the European Union Delegation to Cambodia, on the morning of Nov. 4, 2026.

The meeting was attended by CDC management, the Cambodian Investment Board, representatives of relevant ministries and institutions, the President, Vice Presidents and members of EuroCham, and private sector representatives.

In his opening remarks, H.E. Sun Chanthol highlighted key achievements and strategic directions in enhancing the investment climate and trade facilitation, noting positive progress in logistics cooperation as a vital driver of supply chains and trade connectivity.

He stressed that despite global economic uncertainties, Cambodia remains steadfast in attracting and promoting foreign direct investment by providing a favourable, stable and predictable environment. He also shared updates on the Sihanoukville deep-sea port expansion, with Phase 1 scheduled for completion in mid-2027—a milestone expected to cut maritime transport costs by approximately 30% and boost international market competitiveness.

H.E. Driesmans fully supported the Royal Government's efforts and praised the dialogue as a useful and effective platform for addressing challenges and fostering cooperation between the public sector and European businesses. He welcomed and expressed readiness to support CDC's upcoming Investment Roadshow across EU countries, saying its success would be reflected in growing European FDI.

The ambassador also highlighted the 25th anniversary of the EU's "Everything But Arms" initiative, which has supported Cambodia's growth, poverty reduction and socio-economic development, and expressed anticipation for joint efforts toward the GSP+ framework as a further catalyst for export potential and sustainable European investment.

Both sides discussed key deliverables from the past four sessions, ongoing initiatives and upcoming action plans. The European side expressed appreciation for the Royal Government's attention to their concerns and optimism about the open exchange of views.

The dialogue concluded in a warm, understanding and highly fruitful atmosphere, underscoring the Royal Government's commitment to improving the business climate and deepening the strategic partnership between Cambodia and the EU.

Source: Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC)

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Reported by The Khmer Today