Sihanoukville Autonomous Port is now one of the fastest-growing ports in the region and is undergoing expansion under Japanese aid. (Photo by Akira Kodaka)

Cambodia's biggest port sees China coveting Japan's dominant role

Fast-growing Sihanoukville harbor thrives amid Tokyo-Beijing rivalry

KENJI KAWASE, Nikkei Asian Review chief business news correspondent

August 3, 2018 14:02 JST

SIHANOUKVILLE, Cambodia -- Once a tranquil seaside enclave in southwestern Cambodia, Sihanoukville, or Kompong Som, has turned into a paradise for Chinese investors in recent years. Casinos, hotels, restaurants, massage parlors and supermarkets are festooned in signs in Chinese. More buildings are under construction, fueled by an incessant inflow of Chinese money and people.