Background
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) is responsible for planning, regulation and management of Cambodia’s transport infrastructure, including inland waterways, maritime routes and ports.
A sub-decree in Cambodia is an executive regulatory instrument issued to implement laws and set administrative procedures under the authority of the Council of Ministers. The draft sub-decree reviewed by MPWT defines arrangements for the organization, development and protection of waterway infrastructure to support navigation, transport and port operations; it sets objectives on navigation safety, waterway order and regulatory stability for investment and network development.
Scope of Application
The draft sub-decree applies to the management of waterway infrastructure that supports navigation, transport and ports, and addresses roles for relevant ministries, state institutions and local authorities engaged in water transport and port infrastructure oversight.
Key Provisions or Decisions
- The draft text sets out provisions on the arrangement, development and protection of waterway infrastructure designed to support navigation and cargo/passenger transport.
- It establishes objectives to ensure navigation safety and to maintain order across Cambodia’s waterways.
- The sub-decree aims to provide regulatory stability for investment, development of the national transport network, and the construction of waterway infrastructure.
- MPWT convened a consultation on 5 June 2026 chaired by Undersecretary of State Chan Tara, with participation from deputy undersecretaries, directors, technical officers of the General Department of Waterway, Maritime and Ports Transport, and representatives of other ministries and state authorities.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
By framing a legal management structure for waterway infrastructure, the draft sub-decree will affect regulatory conditions relevant to operators of navigation, transport services and port facilities and clarify institutional responsibilities for infrastructure stewardship and compliance. Businesses and investors engaged in water transport or port construction should monitor the sub-decree text and later formal enactment to understand specific administrative procedures and compliance obligations once finalized.
Official Source
Original meeting notice and summary published by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport: MPWT Facebook post, 5 June 2026.
