China Eximbank provides RMB 601 million government concession loan for Tonle Bassac Bridge (Chak Angrae Kraom-Praek Pra) Project

Project narrative

On September 15, 2023, China Eximbank and the Government of Cambodia signed a government concessional loan (GCL) worth RMB 601 million for the Tonle Bassac Bridge (Chak Angrae Kraom-Praek Pra) Project. The loan held a 2% fixed interest rate, 7 year grace period, and 20 year maturity. The total construction cost of the project is USD 58.25 million. The purpose of the project is to (a) construct an steel bridge over the Tonle Bassac River that is 845 meters in length (including abutment) and 27 meters in width to connect the Chak Angre Krom and Prek Pra areas, and (b) construct a connecting road (including a bridge approach road and auxiliary road) that is 805 meters in length and 27 meters in width. The new Tonle Bassac Bridge is expected replace the existing steel bridge from Russey Keo, which will be repurposed for temporary use during the construction period. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport stated the some housing would be demolished and acquired during construction, but did not specify if there was a resettlement plan or compensation. Construction began on February 19, 2024. As of May 2025, construction is approximately 33.5% complete. According to the Cambodian Development Cooperation Board, the estimated completion date for the project is June 29, 2027.