The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) is negotiating a public-private partnership (PPP) with Cambodian development firm AZ Builder to finalize the long-awaited Kampot International Tourist Port. AZ Builder, a subsidiary of AZ Group, has proposed an investment of $5–$10 million to bring the port into operation.
Despite the port’s construction concluding in 2022, technical issues have delayed its opening. AZ Builder’s proposed investment focuses on essential dredging to deepen the waterway, making it navigable for larger vessels.
Minister Peng Ponea emphasized that the port must meet international standards to attract tourists and that the selected private partner will be responsible for infrastructure improvements, including waterway dredging and security upgrades. The MPWT is targeting the third quarter of 2024 for initial operations, with full commercial opening anticipated by year-end.
Once operational, the port will connect Kampot with major destinations along Cambodia’s coast and facilitate international connections with nearby countries, promising to boost tourism and trade across the region.