Cambodia receives fiber optic cable

Cambodia is expanding its fiber optic infrastructure through both domestic land networks and its first state-owned submarine cable to Hong Kong, enhancing national and international connectivity.Domestic Fiber Optic Expansion

Cambodia Fibre Optic Communication Networks Co., Ltd (CFOCN), a subsidiary of Shenzhen-based HyalRoute Group, has proposed a major project to install underground fiber optic cables across nine provinces: Kandal, Kampot, Kampong Speu, Kampong Thom, Kep, Sihanoukville, Koh Kong, Takeo, and Svay Rieng . The project aims to extend high-speed internet access to less developed regions, complementing CFOCN's previous urban network installations. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) has reviewed the technical plans, feasibility studies, and regulatory compliance to ensure the project's safety, efficiency, and sustainability . CFOCN previously received a $75 million loan from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to improve Cambodia's internet speed and quality .

International Connectivity: Submarine Cable

Cambodia is also set to launch its first state-owned submarine optical fiber cable connecting Sihanoukville to Hong Kong, spanning approximately 3,000 kilometers . This project, led by China Unicom in partnership with the Cambodian Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MPT), is expected to be completed by July 2025 . The Sihanoukville-Hong Kong Submarine Cable System will significantly enhance Cambodia's international communication capabilities, providing high-capacity bandwidth for internet services and supporting the country's digital economy . Funding for the project comes from the Cambodian government and loans from China, with profits from internet services planned to repay the loans .

Impact and Benefits

The combined domestic and international fiber optic initiatives are expected to:

• Improve internet speed and reliability across urban and rural areas
• Expand access to digital services and telecom infrastructure nationwide
• Strengthen Cambodia's international connectivity and integration into regional digital networks
• Support economic development, e-commerce, and digital innovation by providing high-capacity, stable internet infrastructure These projects mark a significant step in Cambodia's telecommunications development, positioning the country to better meet growing digital demands and regional connectivity standards.