Cambodia’s new expressway route is already proving popular with drivers since it opened on 1st October 2022. The trial opening period has allowed drivers to use the first completed section of the link, which connects capital Phnom Penh with Sihanoukville, for free.
In the first two weeks of the route opening it was used by 200,000 vehicles. The 187km route is Cambodia’s first expressway and features two lanes in either direction, as well as emergency lanes on either side. The new highway cuts journey times for drivers and connects with Cambodia’s main port.
Much of the financing has been provided by China and the project forms part of China’s flagship Belt and Road Initiative, intended to deliver economic growth. Funding worth US$2 billion is being provided for the project, which is being carried out by China Road and Bridge Corporation. The new route cuts journey times compared with the existing National Road 4.
