On January 13, 2026, the Royal Government of Cambodia officially greenlit a $208 million incentive package for 24 investment projects in Preah Sihanouk province. This strategic move, part of a specialized promotion program now extended until 2027, targets the completion of stalled buildings and the launch of new industrial ventures. With 15 new investments and 8 projects focused on reviving the city’s skyline, the government is accelerating Sihanoukville’s transition into a Model Multi-Purpose Special Economic Zone.
1. Breaking Down the $208 Million Investment
The Ministry of Economy and Finance, led by H.E. Dr. Hean Sahib, has approved a diverse mix of projects designed to diversify the coastal economy and create over 3,120 new jobs.
- Reviving Stalled Buildings: 8 projects are specifically dedicated to completing unfinished structures, resolving a long-standing challenge for the city’s urban landscape.
- New Industrial Ventures: 15 new projects signify a fresh wave of investor confidence in Sihanoukville’s logistics and manufacturing potential.
- Expansion: 1 existing project is scaling up operations, reflecting sustainable growth for established firms.
2. Program Extended: The Road to 2027
In a significant move for long-term planning, the Royal Government has extended the Special Investment Promotion Programme for an additional two years, now running through the end of 2027.
This extension introduces four new measures aimed at:
- Accelerating administrative procedures for international firms.
- Providing deeper tax incentives and customs duty exemptions.
- Streamlining the “One-Stop” service for investor requests.
- Transforming the province into a National Growth Pole.
3. Why This Matters for Global Investors
For years, Sihanoukville was viewed through the lens of a “boom and bust” cycle. However, the 2026 data shows a calculated shift toward industrial stability. By focusing on multi-purpose economic zones rather than just tourism/gaming, Cambodia is inviting high-quality FDI in electronics, assembly, and green energy.
Investor Note: The extension to 2027 provides a clear “safety window” for Western capital to enter the market while these specialized incentives are still at their peak.
Sihanoukville as the “Shenzhen of Cambodia”
The goal is clear: Sihanoukville is being groomed to become the “Shenzhen of the Mekong.” With the Funan Techo Canal set to connect the capital directly to these deep-sea ports, the 24 projects approved today are just the beginning of a massive logistical integration. For US investors, the combination of special tax breaks and a strategic coastal location makes Sihanoukville a prime candidate for “China Plus One” manufacturing strategies.