Cambodia Approves New Economic Zone Along National Road 51

On March 11, the Cambodian government approved the establishment of a new economic zone along National Road 51. The project is located in Samrong Tong district of Kampong Speu province at kilometer 31 and covers more than 500 hectares. It has been named the “NR51 Jia Hua Economic Zone.”

Special economic zones in Cambodia are designated areas created to promote economic growth, mainly focusing on industrial manufacturing and related business activities. These zones usually include general industrial areas or export processing zones.

According to the Sub-Decree on the Establishment and Management of Special Economic Zones issued in December 2005, each zone must include a production center and may also develop supporting areas such as free trade zones, service centers, residential zones, and tourism facilities.

The Cambodian government encourages investors to operate within economic zones due to flexible labor regulations, policy incentives, and favorable transport and location advantages.

Many economic zones are located near seaports, major highways, airports, or international border crossings, which helps facilitate logistics and international trade.

These zones also provide integrated services including administrative support, worker housing, medical services, and recreational facilities, along with infrastructure such as roads, electricity, water supply, drainage, telecommunications, and fire safety systems.

Each zone also includes a special administrative office that offers one-stop services to assist companies with permits, customs procedures, and other government services.

By the end of 2025, Cambodia had 57 special economic zones and industrial parks nationwide, up from 50 in 2024.