Background
Irrigation infrastructure in Cambodia supports agricultural water supply by storing, diverting, and distributing water during dry periods and by helping manage excess water during flood events. Water resource systems are directly linked to rice production, rural livelihoods, flood control, and climate adaptation in provinces exposed to seasonal rainfall variation.
The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology is the national institution responsible for water resources management, irrigation systems, and meteorological services in Cambodia. Climate-resilient irrigation investment strengthens water security by upgrading canals, control structures, and related systems so they can operate under drought, flood, and changing rainfall conditions.
External infrastructure finance is used by Cambodia to support large-scale water management projects that require long planning cycles, technical design, and multi-province implementation. Cooperation with development finance institutions such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank can provide capital and technical engagement for public water infrastructure projects.
Key Developments
On May 6, 2026, Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology Thor Chetha received David Ginting, Project Director and Mission Leader of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, for discussions at the ministry in Phnom Penh.
The discussion focused on the Climate Change Resilient Sustainable Irrigation and Water Resources Development Project Phase 1, known as CCRSIWDFMP Phase 1. According to the ministry, the project aims to develop climate-resilient irrigation systems and reduce drought and flood risks nationwide.
Institutional Role
MOWRAM described AIIB as an ongoing partner in Cambodia’s water resources and meteorology sector. The ministry stated that cooperation with AIIB supports water resources management, water security, economic growth, and climate resilience objectives aligned with the Royal Government’s Pentagonal Strategy Phase I.
Minister Thor Chetha reaffirmed the ministry’s intention to strengthen and expand cooperation with AIIB in water resources investment. The ministry linked the cooperation to efforts to reduce natural disaster impacts, including floods and droughts, in the context of climate change and global warming.
Operational Implications
The CCRSIWDFMP is financed by AIIB and is being implemented in two phases, according to MOWRAM. Phase 1 covers six target provinces: Kampong Thom, Preah Vihear, Siem Reap, Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey, and Pursat.
The first phase focuses on rehabilitation and modernization of 15 major irrigation systems. For provincial water infrastructure planning, the project identifies specific geographic coverage and system-level modernization as the core implementation approach.
