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Manhattan Special Economic Zone
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Industrial site
The Manhattan Special Economic Zone (MSEZ) in Bavet is the historically first special economic zone in Cambodia and a milestone in the country's economic development. Established in 2005 by the Taiwanese Medtecs Group, it is located directly on the border with Vietnam. On an area of approximately 150 hectares, MSEZ has a specialized platform for export-oriented companies, primarily in the sectors of textiles, footwear, and household goods. The zone benefits from its direct connection to National Highway 1 and logistical proximity to Ho Chi Minh City, which significantly facilitates the transport of raw materials and finished products. MSEZ has contributed decisively to transforming Bavet from a small border village into a significant industrial center. Today, thousands of people work here, making MSEZ one of the largest employers in Svay Rieng Province. It is considered a successful model for industrial decentralization in Cambodia.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Nhà hát huyện Gò Dầu · Điện thờ Phật Mẫu thị trấn Gò Dầu · Giáo xứ Gò Dầu
- Nearby: Bavet (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 29 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 7 | 16 | 43 | 142 | 217 | 182 | 165 | 181 | 203 | 101 | 32 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Manhattan Special Economic Zone in Bavet is Cambodia's first special economic zone, a major industrial hub on the Vietnamese border. It attracts foreign investment and creates thousands of manufacturing jobs.
Visiting
The industrial zone is not open to tourists as it consists of secured factory premises. From the adjacent National Road 1, however, the entrances and some production halls can be seen.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the area in front of the main gate on National Road 1, where you can watch the truck traffic. A small hill south of the zone provides an overview of the entire site.
Local products
Factories mainly produce textiles, electronic components, and footwear for export. At nearby Bavet's markets you can find cheap clothing and everyday items from local production.
Active season
The zone operates year-round, with peak activity during typical production cycles in the dry season. At shift changes in the morning and evening, traffic of workers and buses is heaviest.
Nearby
The zone is only a few kilometers from the border crossing to Vietnam, making a day trip to Ho Chi Minh City feasible. Bavet itself has casinos and simple restaurants catering mainly to business travelers.
Geography
Facts
- MSEZ was the first officially registered SEZ in Cambodia in 2005.
- Over 30 international manufacturing plants are established within the zone.
- The zone employs approximately 28,000 Cambodian workers.
- MSEZ features its own water treatment system and power plant.
- The distance to Ho Chi Minh City port is only about 80 kilometers.
- The Taiwanese Medtecs Group is the primary developer of the zone.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Manhattan Special Economic Zone (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Manhattan SEZ?
It is Cambodia's first special economic zone, located right on the border with Vietnam.
What products are mainly manufactured here?
Mainly footwear, textiles, and bicycles for the global market.
Can you enter the zone?
Entry is only allowed with official permission or for business purposes.
Why is it called 'Manhattan'?
The name was chosen by the investor to signal modernity and economic significance.
What is near the zone?
The city of Bavet with its numerous casinos and the border crossing to Vietnam.
Manhattan Special Economic Zone: where is it located?
Manhattan Special Economic Zone is located in Cambodia.
Manhattan Special Economic Zone: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nhà hát huyện Gò Dầu, Điện thờ Phật Mẫu thị trấn Gò Dầu, Giáo xứ Gò Dầu.
Manhattan Special Economic Zone: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Manhattan Special Economic Zone: why is it worth visiting?
The Manhattan Special Economic Zone (MSEZ) in Bavet is the historically first special economic zone in Cambodia and a milestone in the country's economic development.
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