AKP Phnom Penh, January 30, 2026 --

Cambodia and Japan have formally convened the first Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) meeting to initiate a comprehensive master plan aimed at transforming the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port (PAS) into a primary regional gateway and logistics hub.

The meeting, held Thursday afternoon, was co-chaired by H.E. Peng Ponea, Minister of Public Works and Transport of Cambodia, and H.E. UENO Atsushi, Ambassador of Japan to Cambodia. The session drew high-level participation from inter-ministerial stakeholders, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and senior port officials.

Minister Peng Ponea expressed profound gratitude to the Government of Japan and JICA for their long-standing technical and financial support, noting that Japan remains a critical partner in modernising Cambodia’s transport and logistics infrastructure.

Ambassador UENO highlighted the historical depth of this partnership, noting that 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Japanese cooperation in Cambodia’s port sector, which began in 1996. He emphasised that the master plan is a testament to the 73-year diplomatic bond between the two nations and aligns with the shared vision of their respective heads of government.

The committee reached a consensus on several key operational pillars to drive the project forward: Establishing a clear framework for the "Regional Port and Logistics Hub" designation; Approval of a 24-month action plan to execute the master plan; Formation of dedicated working groups to accelerate project milestones; Plans for consultative workshops and technical training sessions to ensure sustainable management.

The initiative stems from a strategic proposal by former Prime Minister and current Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, who sought Japanese expertise to elevate Sihanoukville’s status. The project represents a cornerstone of Cambodia’s national strategy to enhance global competitiveness, reduce logistics costs, and integrate the Kingdom more deeply into regional and global supply chains. 

By K. Rithy Reak