PHNOM PENH: A large tourism port has been inaugurated in Preah Sihanouk province to attract more visitors to its abundant natural attractions.

The official inauguration of the Sihanoukville Tourism port, capable of accommodating 20 cruise ships of various sizes simultaneously, was presided over by Minister of Tourism H.E. Thong Khon on Thursday.

Invested in by GTVC Import Export Co., Ltd., the port spans 22,000 square meters and is expected to significantly contribute to the growth of tourism in the province, according to Neak Oknha Tea Vichet, CEO of the company.

During the event, Preah Sihanouk Provincial Governor H.E. Kuoch Chamroeun expressed optimism that the port would become an international hub, facilitating the movement of tourists between Thailand, Vietnam, and other countries.

Minister Thong Khon praised the new port as an important tourism infrastructure that offers safety and convenience for cruise ships and tourists alike. He also highlighted the positive impact it would have on the province's cultural and natural attractions, as well as its potential to create more employment and income opportunities for the local population.

Tourism plays a crucial role in Cambodia's macroeconomic growth and social development, and it is expected to become a major contributor to the country's gross domestic product in the near future.