Cambodia is preparing for a major transformation of its transport and trade network as Prime Minister Hun Manet announced plans to study the development of the former Phnom Penh International Airport and Sihanoukville Autonomous Port into regional logistics hubs. Speaking during the inauguration of National Road 7 in Kampong Cham on Tuesday, the Prime Minister outlined the government’s long term vision to strengthen regional connectivity, improve the movement of goods, reduce logistics costs, and support sustainable economic growth across the country.
The proposal forms part of Cambodia’s broader transport and logistics master plan, which aims to build an integrated nationwide network connecting roads, ports, airports, and distribution centers. By improving cargo movement and supply chains, the government hopes to make goods more affordable while positioning Cambodia as a stronger regional trade and investment destination.
Cambodia Expands Its Logistics Vision
During a Facebook Live broadcast lasting more than two hours, Prime Minister Hun Manet explained that Cambodia’s infrastructure strategy now extends far beyond roads and bridges. The government is placing greater emphasis on logistics infrastructure that can improve trade efficiency and strengthen the country’s competitiveness in Southeast Asia.
“For Phnom Penh [International] Airport, we are in talks to establish a regional logistics hub if possible.”
The announcement signals a new direction for the former Phnom Penh International Airport, which ceased operations in September 2025 following the opening of the new Techo International Airport. Rather than focusing solely on transportation infrastructure, Cambodia is now looking at ways to maximize the site’s long term economic value through logistics development.
Future of the Former Airport Still Under Study
The Prime Minister’s latest remarks differ from earlier statements regarding the former airport’s future. Previously, he confirmed that the site would remain state property under the management of the State Secretariat for Civil Aviation and emphasized that it would not be sold to private investors.
“The old airport is not for sale. It remains state property under the management of the SSCA,” Manet said at the time, adding that maintaining the site costs about $3 million a year. “Please note that I will not sell it privately,” he added.
Earlier this year, the former airport temporarily opened to the public during Khmer New Year as part of a nine day trial for a proposed public park. However, no final redevelopment plan has been approved, and government officials have not yet confirmed whether the future logistics hub would be built on the existing airport site or another nearby location.
Government Begins Technical Studies
Government agencies say the Prime Minister’s announcement marks the beginning of a technical assessment rather than an immediate construction project.
Responding to questions from the media, Ministry of Public Works and Transport spokesperson Phan Rim explained that officials are awaiting further government instructions before moving forward with detailed planning. He said the Prime Minister’s announcement provides policy direction for technical teams to begin evaluating future possibilities.
Rim also revealed that Cambodia is already working with Japan on a feasibility study to develop a logistics center at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port.
The collaboration reflects Cambodia’s commitment to strengthening its maritime logistics capabilities while improving international trade efficiency through its largest deep sea port.
National Master Plan Targets Eleven Logistics Centers
The proposed projects are part of Cambodia’s Comprehensive Master Plan on Intermodal Transport and Logistics 2023 to 2033, which outlines the creation of a nationwide logistics network connecting key economic corridors.
According to the master plan, logistics centers are planned for Phnom Penh, Preah Sihanouk, Bavet, Poipet, Siem Reap, Kampot, Kampong Cham, Battambang, Pursat, Banteay Meanchey, and Kampong Thom. These strategic locations are expected to improve cargo consolidation, distribution, and transportation efficiency throughout the country.
Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized that logistics infrastructure is essential for supporting future economic growth.
“Logistics refers to the distribution hubs, the centres of logistics that can help facilitate and build this economy. Therefore, our action plan includes projects to establish 11 locations across the country.”
He added that improved logistics systems will make transportation more efficient, reduce supply chain costs, and ultimately lower commodity prices for consumers.
“Once the infrastructure is connected and transport is facilitated, we must establish logistics hubs to make it easier to consolidate cargo, distribute it and help lower commodity prices. This will generate even more economic activity in the future.”
Readers can learn more from the original report published by Kiripost.
Why the Logistics Strategy Matters?
Efficient logistics plays a crucial role in attracting foreign investment, supporting exports, and helping businesses reduce operating costs. By integrating airports, ports, highways, and logistics centers into one coordinated network, Cambodia aims to strengthen its position as a regional manufacturing and distribution hub.
The initiative also complements the country’s ongoing investments in expressways, deep sea ports, railways, and the newly opened Techo International Airport, creating a more connected transport ecosystem capable of supporting future economic expansion.
Conclusion
Cambodia’s plan to study the transformation of the former Phnom Penh International Airport and Sihanoukville Autonomous Port into regional logistics hubs reflects a broader vision for long term economic development. Combined with the national logistics master plan and continued investment in transport infrastructure, these projects have the potential to improve trade efficiency, lower business costs, and strengthen Cambodia’s role as a regional logistics gateway. If successfully implemented, the initiative could become one of the country’s most significant steps toward building a modern and competitive economy.