Sihanoukville Port Partners with SMEs to Ease Export Barriers

SIHANOUKVILLE, Sept 18, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s main deep‑sea port has signed a cooperation agreement with small‑business associations aimed at reducing export barriers and lowering logistics costs for local enterprises seeking to reach global markets, officials said Thursday. The Sihanoukville Autonomous Port (PAS) and the Federation of Associations for Small and Medium Enterprises of Cambodia (FASMEC) signed a memorandum of understanding to improve SMEs’ access to port services, facilitate cargo handling and streamline payments. The signing was presided over by Preah Sihanouk Governor Mang Sineth, PAS Director General Lou Kim Chhun and FASMEC Chairman Te Taingpor. Taingpor said SMEs often face high transportation and logistics costs that undermine competitiveness. The new partnership is expected to make export procedures faster and more convenient, helping Cambodian products reach regional and international markets at competitive prices. “We have worked with government institutions and the private sector to help SMEs gain better access to financing and simplify registration and export procedures,” Taingpor said, adding that the goal is to improve the quality and competitiveness of locally produced goods. Kim Chhun said the agreement links Cambodia’s international trade gateway with domestic businesses, while PAS expands infrastructure to meet rising demand. The port is building a 350‑metre container terminal with 14.5‑metre depth, due in March 2027. A second 400‑metre terminal is scheduled to begin construction later in 2026, followed by a third 430‑metre terminal from 2027 to 2030. Governor Sineth said the MoU connects SMEs directly with the country’s main export hub, aiming to strengthen competitiveness and expand Cambodian products abroad. He said the agreement will improve SMEs’ understanding of port procedures, reduce costs and facilitate trade. Cambodia’s SME sector remains a major part of the economy, with government initiatives supporting financing, digitalisation and entrepreneurship. FASMEC said lowering logistics costs is crucial for SMEs competing in increasingly competitive regional and global markets.