Synopsis: The $1.7 billion project will create an integrated inland waterway network, improve efficiency, reduce transport costs, and strengthen Cambodia’s trade competitiveness.Dredging work will commence next month on the Funan Techo Canal project, which is expected to boost Cambodia’s inland waterways and trade upon its completion. Phan Rim, spokesman for the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, said ministry officials will conduct site inspections along the canal at the end of this month to ensure construction will proceed safely and efficiently. “We planned to begin digging the canal in late November or early December, but it depends on water levels,” he said. “As long as water remains high and rainfall continues, we may face delays. We are concerned that starting at the end of November might not be possible, but we will continue pushing forward.” He added the the excavation will begin from Prek Ta Keo section, passing through Kandal province toward Prek Por and extending to Prek Ta Hing section. The project is currently in the phase of surveying and resolving impacts on local communities. Technical teams are assessing effects on houses, farmland, and public infrastructure—particularly in Koh Thom district, Kandal province. Officials have interviewed affected residents and organised consultation forums to address local concerns. Rim said the project will be complete by 2028 if everything goes according to plan. “Our equipment is fully prepared, and we have no concerns on that front,” he said.The Funan Techo Canal is a historic infrastructure project designed to accommodate vessels up to 3,000 DWT, connecting four provinces—Kandal, Takeo, Kampot, and Kep. When completed, it will create an integrated inland waterway network, improve efficiency, reduce transport costs, and strengthen trade competitiveness. “The project will help Cambodia strengthen the sovereignty, autonomy, and excellence of its inland waterway transport sector by shifting from reliance on others to self-reliance,” he said. “It will also shorten transport distances, significantly reduce shipping costs, and save time for the transportation of goods, agricultural products, tourism services, and Cambodian products to international markets.” The project was launched on August 5 last year. It forms part of Cambodia’s broader plan to modernise water transport, enhance trade connectivity, and promote sustainable economic development. The canal project stretches 180 kilometres, starting from Prek Takeo of the Mekong River, passing through Prek Ta Ek of the Bassac River, then into Prek Ta Hing of the Bassac River in Koh Thom district, and extends to Kep province. This waterway traverses the provinces of Kandal, Takeo, Kampot, and Kep, with 1.6 million people living along its banks. The construction is estimated to cost about $1.7 billion.