Cambodia - កំពង់ចាម ឯកឧត្តម
The Sihanoukville Autonomous Port (PAS), the primary deep-sea port of Cambodia, occupies a strategic location along the nation’s coastline. Notably, PAS is situated near a deep water stream, reducing the need for regular channel dredging and maintenance. This advantageous geographical feature, combined with the dedicated efforts of the port’s management and employees, makes PAS a significant player in maritime transport.
Infrastructure and Services at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port
Covering roughly 125 hectares, PAS is nestled comfortably in the Bay of Kampong Som. Established in early 1956, the port has undergone consistent expansion, and presently, it manages 12 berths equipped with modern cargo handling equipment. Additionally, PAS provides pilotage services for three private berths dedicated to tankers.
Over the past half-decade (2016-2020), PAS has seen a surge in cargo throughput, with an increase of over 12 percent. By 2020, the volume of cargo throughput reached 6.6 million tons, and the number of container throughput stood at 641,842 TEUs. The port can accommodate general cargo vessels with a gross tonnage of 50,000 DWT and container vessels of 16,000 DWT, with a loading capacity of approximately 1550 TEUs.
The main services provided by PAS encompass navigation, handling, cargo storage and warehousing, transport, special economic zone, logistics, and supply base for offshore oil exploration. The port’s channel draft is 10.5m, and there are no other limitations relating to vessel size. On average, a vessel has to wait for 2 hours between its arrival and berthing.
Container Facilities and Future Developments at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port
PAS boasts a container yard that spans 217,000 m2, with a storage capacity of up to 21,800 TEUs. It also houses a 36,000 m2 warehouse with a capacity of 72,000 tons. Currently, the container yard is about 70% occupied, and hence, congestion is not a significant issue. PAS can also provide refrigerated storage for all Reefer Containers, except for grain and food storages in bulk, with 192 plugins for Reefer Containers.
Looking towards the future, PAS initiated the construction of a Multipurpose Terminal in early 2015, which commenced operations in 2018. This move was aimed at promoting sectors like agriculture, agroindustry, and trade, particularly boosting the export of Cambodian agricultural products, such as dried tapioca. The terminal also serves as a logistics hub for offshore oil exploration, contributing to Cambodia’s economic growth.
Key operators include Cosco Shipping and Samudera Shipping Line.