(Tboung Khmum): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced that the completion of the Funan Techo Canal will significantly enhance Cambodia's transportation and logistics capabilities by establishing direct shipping routes, thereby eliminating the need to transit through neighbouring countries.

Speaking on Wednesday morning (May 27) in Tboung Khmum province, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet highlighted that only around 15 to 16 per cent of large international shipments can access Cambodian ports directly, with the majority requiring transhipment through neighbouring countries.

"Our products and capabilities are no longer reliant on transportation through intermediaries," he stated. "With the ongoing development of Sihanoukville Port and the completion of the Funan Techo Canal, Cambodia will gain enhanced direct access to global shipping routes," said the premier.

He also noted that Cambodia has recently initiated direct exports of agricultural products to China, thus bypassing intermediary nations and reducing logistical costs and complexities.

On the occasion, the prime minister also highlighted the canal project's anticipated significant economic benefits, including enhanced transport capabilities, increased logistics self-sufficiency, extended irrigation for vast agricultural areas, and the creation of new prospects for special economic zones and industrial growth adjacent to the waterway.

He reiterated the importance of implementing national projects to stimulate the overall economy, particularly in support of agriculture and agro-industry, and to enhance transportation competitiveness. He expressed confidence that the Funan Techo Canal project will not incur losses for Cambodia.

According to Fresh AI, the Funan Techo Canal is a significant inland waterway initiative that will connect Cambodia's river systems to the sea. Spanning nearly 180 kilometres, the canal will extend from the Mekong River through the Bassac River system to Kep province, traversing Kandal, Takeo, Kampot, and Kep provinces.

With an approximate budget of USD 1.7 billion, the project intends to stimulate the development of trade zones, special economic zones, new satellite ports, irrigation systems, and advancements in agriculture, aquaculture, tourism, flood management, freshwater fisheries, and real estate, as well as other investment sectors.
=FRESH NEWS