Chrey Thom, once an overlooked border town along the Mekong River, is rapidly emerging as one of Cambodia’s most dynamic economic frontiers. With strategic government planning, foreign investment, and growing connectivity with Vietnam, this southern gateway is being reshaped into a bustling center for trade, industry, and logistics. Here are five key reasons why Chrey Thom is set to become Cambodia’s next economic hub.
1. Strategic Location and Cross-Border Connectivity
Chrey Thom’s geographical position gives it a natural advantage. Located less than 70 kilometers from Phnom Penh and directly connected to Vietnam’s Long Binh ward via the Chrey Thom–Long Binh Friendship Bridge, the town serves as a crucial link between Cambodia’s heartland and Vietnam’s industrial south, including Đồng Nai and Ho Chi Minh City. Since the bridge’s inauguration in 2017, cross-border trade has grown significantly, transforming Chrey Thom into an emerging trade corridor that complements existing hubs like Bavet.
This proximity to both the capital and Vietnam allows Chrey Thom to efficiently channel goods, raw materials, and investments across borders—making it a logistical powerhouse in the making.
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2. Rapid Infrastructure and Industrial Development
The town’s transformation is visible everywhere from upgraded roads and bridges to new warehouses, hotels, and industrial facilities. The Royal Government has prioritized infrastructure investment to support trade expansion, with ongoing projects including riverbank fortifications, power grid upgrades, and road widening.
Such developments are setting the stage for large-scale industrialization, with Chrey Thom projected to become a satellite manufacturing zone supporting Cambodia’s export industries. The potential establishment of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) here could further enhance trade efficiency, reduce transportation costs, and attract more investors seeking to diversify away from the country’s western border zones.
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3. Rising Foreign Investment and Investor-Friendly Policies
Foreign investors particularly from China are increasingly turning their attention to Chrey Thom. Drawn by its strategic position, low land costs, and access to both the Cambodian and Vietnamese markets, these investors are funding logistics centers, retail outlets, and hospitality projects.
Cambodia’s new Investment Law has also strengthened the country’s appeal by allowing 100% foreign ownership and free capital movement, enabling investors to repatriate profits without restrictions. This liberal economic policy stands in contrast to Vietnam’s more regulated investment environment, giving Cambodia an edge as a regional investment destination.
4. Stable Bilateral Relations and Expanding Trade with Vietnam
While Cambodia’s western border with Thailand has occasionally faced trade and political disruptions, the eastern frontier with Vietnam remains notably stable. This consistent relationship has made Vietnam a trusted trade partner, with bilateral trade surpassing $10 billion in 2024.
Chrey Thom is now playing an increasing role in this trade flow, serving as a new export route for Cambodian agricultural goods while importing essential commodities from Vietnam. As infrastructure continues to improve, this route is expected to handle greater trade volumes, bolstering economic resilience and regional integration.
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5. Emerging Tourism and Service Potential
Beyond trade and industry, Chrey Thom is becoming an appealing destination for cross-border tourism. The Friendship Bridge allows for easy entry and exit between Cambodia and Vietnam, attracting visitors seeking cultural experiences, shopping, and local cuisine. Plans to upgrade the checkpoint to full international status could open the door to more visitors, supporting local small businesses and hospitality services.
The town’s riverside charm, proximity to Phnom Penh, and improved accessibility make it a perfect location for leisure, business, and logistics all of which support a more diverse and sustainable economy.
A Gateway to Cambodia’s Economic Future
Chrey Thom’s rise reflects Cambodia’s strategic pivot toward Vietnam, a move rooted in connectivity, stability, and opportunity. With infrastructure projects accelerating, foreign capital flowing in, and trade steadily expanding, this once-quiet border town is poised to become the Kingdom’s next major economic hub.
For investors, policymakers, and businesses alike, Chrey Thom represents not just a town on the map—but a vision of Cambodia’s future growth and regional integration.