The Economy and Finance Ministry yesterday published results of a meeting discussing results of a pre-feasibility study on a master plan designed to transform Preah Sihanouk province into a multi-purpose economic zone, similar to Shenzen city in China.
The study, carried out by China’s Urban Planning and Design Institute of Shenzen, began in May after a proposal was presented to the experts and the Ministry of Industry and Handicraft and the Finance Ministry.
According to a Ministry of Economy and Finance press release yesterday, the meeting was chaired by Aun Pornmoniroth, Minister of Economy and Finance.
It said the officials during the meeting identified current and future challenges, especially regarding policy.
“The master plan has to include a long-term vision based on technology, world-class facilities, the environment, and industrial and economic poles to serve regional production chains,” the ministry said. “[It should also include] a high-tech human resource training centre to support industries using advanced technology and innovation.”
The ministry said the master plan should also include steps to erect financial centres, green belts, agriculture and residential areas, as well as provisions supporting high-quality public service.
Xiao Sima, head of a delegation from the institute in Shenzen, said experts at the institute used Shenzen city’s master plan to study Preah Sihanouk.
“We will use our experience developing Shenen to develop [Preah Sihanouk], in line with the government’s Industrial Development Policy for 2015 to 2025,” Mr Xiao said.
Cham Prasidh, Minister of Industry and Handicraft, in May said the government will continue to review the master plan.
Mr Prasidh said the master plan is also aimed at developing Sihanoukville into a modern, green city, as well as attract investments.
Located in the country’s coast, Preah Sihanouk province boasts Cambodia’s only deep-sea port, and international airport, and a railway line that connects to the capital.
The province is also home to the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, a project of investors from China’s Jiangsu province.
