Hun Manet Eyes Svay Rieng as Major Economic Hub in 20 Years

Hun Manet Eyes Svay Rieng as Major Economic Hub in 20 Years

SVAY RIENG, March 26, 2026 — Cambodia is accelerating its transformation into a regional economic powerhouse, with Svay Rieng province emerging as a key growth engine driven by industrial expansion, cross-border trade and rising foreign investment, Prime Minister Hun Manet said.

Speaking at the inauguration of a new $30.6 million water treatment plant, Hun Manet highlighted Svay Rieng as a strategic economic pole that reflects Cambodia’s successful development policies and investment-friendly environment.

The project, alongside new water infrastructure expansions in five provinces funded by Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, is expected to significantly improve living standards, support businesses and strengthen investor confidence.

“Svay Rieng is becoming one of Cambodia’s most dynamic economic hubs,” Hun Manet said, pointing to rapid industrialisation, strong cross-border trade and increasing foreign investment inflows.

The province already leads the country with 12 special economic zones and more than 1,000 factories and enterprises, creating thousands of jobs and transforming the local economy.

The prime minister expressed strong confidence that within the next 20 years, Svay Rieng will evolve into a major industrial cluster, further driving national growth and regional competitiveness.

He noted that industrial expansion is expected to spread beyond existing centres such as Bavet, unlocking new opportunities across the province and neighbouring areas.

Officials say the government’s continued focus on infrastructure, clean water, and human capital development is laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth.

Observers see Svay Rieng’s rise as a clear example of Cambodia’s broader economic progress — turning previously underdeveloped areas into vibrant industrial zones that generate employment, attract investment and improve livelihoods.