(Sihanoukville): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced that a cargo ship had recently sailed directly from China to Cambodia, following upgrades to the country’s port infrastructure—whereas such shipments previously had to transit through ports in other countries.

The premier spoke on Thursday (May 22) during his meeting with more than 30,000 workers in the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone.

“Just a few days ago, on 18 May, a cargo ship arrived directly from Fuzhou Port in China, delivering goods to Cambodia. In the past, such shipments could not come directly—they had to pass through Laem Chabang Port in Thailand, with the transfer to Cambodia taking 7 to 8 hours,” the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei highlighted that Cambodia can now both import and export goods directly to and from China, without relying on transshipment via neighbouring countries. This development has significantly reduced delivery time and, more importantly, has lowered shipping costs.

On the occasion, the premier affirmed that these reduced transportation costs are expected to naturally increase the number of shipping vessels, boost Cambodia’s trade economy, and generate more employment opportunities—thereby contributing to national development.

It is worth noting that on 20 May 2025, Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin posted on social media confirming that direct shipping between Wuxi Sea Port (Jiangyin) and Preah Sihanouk Province officially began on 18 May. The estimated transit time is expected to fall to just 7 to 10 days. Additionally, the elimination of transshipment is projected to cut operational port costs by 20 to 30 per cent
=FRESH NEWS