Phnom penh: Cambodia has underscored its ambition to become a regional logistics hub, as senior officials and private sector leaders gathered for a high-level conference aimed at advancing transport modernisation and cross-border cooperation. The event, titled 'Delivering Logistics-Led Growth,' was held here on April 1 and co-chaired by H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, alongside Mr. Tassilo Brinzer, Chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the conference was organised jointly by the CDC, EuroCham and its Transport and Logistics Committee, bringing together regional counterparts from across Southeast Asia, as well as representatives from the EU-ASEAN Business Council and wider industry stakeholders, both in person and online. The significant conference was organised with four strategic objectives, including showcasing the progress and achievements in the coordination process of the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port (PAS) Policy Paper.
Furthermore, the conference aimed to highlight successful public-private collaboration, featuring the success of models between the Royal Government and the private sector in developing and improving Cambodia's infrastructure and logistics services. Another key objective was to promote modernisation and reform, providing updates on Cambodia's deep-seated reforms and the modernisation of its transport infrastructure.
Lastly, the conference sought to strengthen competitiveness by enhancing awareness and elevating Cambodia's profile as a high-potential "Logistics and Trade Hub" within the region. Beyond these objectives, the event established further directions for Cambodia to position itself as a forward-looking market, actively reforming and modernising its logistics framework.
These directions aim to provide updates on PAS infrastructure improvements driven by export growth and present reforms in express logistics and customs facilitation. The conference also aimed to demonstrate the impact of coordinated efforts between government institutions and the private sector, encouraging continued dialogue and cross-border cooperation with regional stakeholders.
As an expected outcome, the conference will serve as a vital catalyst in increasing regional visibility of Cambodia's logistics advancement, reinforcing confidence among investors and trade partners, and enhancing collaboration between national authorities, development partners, and the private sector. These efforts are aimed at contributing to Cambodia's socio-economic development, ensuring it remains prosperous and resilient within the context of globalisation.