PHNOM PENH — In a major development for Cambodia’s infrastructure and national logistics, China Exim Bank and Funan Techo Coastal-Inland Waterways Company signed a landmark facility agreement worth nearly US$1 billion on Wednesday morning, September 9, 2026.
The funding is dedicated to the execution of the Funan Techo Integrated Water Resources Management Project.
The signing ceremony took place during the International Investment Cooperation Event, convened under the theme “Global Wisdom, Mutual Empowerment: International Investment & Cooperation Exchange.” H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), witnessed the historic occasion alongside representatives from the Ministry of Economy and Finance, executives from Funan Techo Coastal-Inland Waterways Co., Ltd., high-ranking dignitaries, and international business leaders.
Addressing the forum, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol expressed deep gratitude to the leaders and governments of both Cambodia and China, as well as China Exim Bank, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), and all involved partners for their close cooperation in reaching this milestone.
He highlighted that the Funan Techo Integrated Water Resources Management Project, being executed under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, serves as a true game changer for the country. By connecting Cambodia’s inland waterway network directly to the sea, the initiative will significantly reduce logistics costs and sharpen the country’s overall trade competitiveness.
Furthermore, officials view the mega-project as a vibrant economic artery that will establish a dynamic new economic corridor. Over the coming decades, regions along the waterway are projected to see thriving growth in industrial zones, logistics hubs, agricultural processing centers, satellite urban developments, and tourism.
Concluding his remarks, the Deputy Prime Minister cited a well-known Chinese proverb, “When people are of one mind, even Mount Tai can be moved,” illustrating the strength of solidarity and international cooperation in achieving major development goals.
DPM also called upon global business leaders to explore investment opportunities in Cambodia, emphasizing that the kingdom is fully prepared to welcome investors, facilitate partnerships, and turn infrastructure connectivity into mutual, long-term economic growth.