Phnom Penh, 06 May, 2024: Anticipation grows as the completion of the Kampot International Tourism Port (KITP) draws near, promising to become a pivotal hub for both national and international tourists and a catalyst for economic growth.
Located in Teuk Chhou district of Kampot province and spanning an impressive 4.5 hectares, the KITP is slated for temporary operation in the third quarter of 2024, with official inauguration scheduled by year’s end. This strategic development aims to accommodate the rising influx of visitors and bolster the nation’s tourism sector.
Minister of Public Works and Transport, PENG Ponea, revealed these details during discussions on the progress of KITP's development with Pen Bona, Minister Delegate and Head of the Royal Government Spokesperson Unit, as shared on the ministry’s Facebook page on May 5.
Initiated on August 8, 2018, and completed by June 30, 2022, the KITP project received financing of US$9.27 million from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Despite the construction's conclusion, operational readiness hinges on securing an operation company with substantial investment capital (ranging from US$5 to US$10 million) and requisite expertise to undertake necessary enhancements to the waterway, navigation techniques, and safety infrastructure.
Once operational, KITP is poised to deliver a multitude of benefits, serving as a pivotal international seaport linking Cambodian archipelagos with regional and global destinations. Beyond enhancing connectivity, its establishment is expected to instill confidence in local and international visitors, generate employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and bolster government initiatives to propel the tourism sector forward.
Highlighting the broader context, Minister PENG Ponea emphasized that despite Cambodia's existing network of 119 ports and terminals, including two international ports—Phnom Penh Autonomous Port and Sihanoukville Autonomous Port—88 river ports, and 31 coastal terminals, there remains a gap in meeting the country's geographical needs.
To address this shortfall, the Ministry of Transport has embarked on drafting a comprehensive Cambodia port master plan 2050.
