A mysterious Chinese company with significant ownership in Cambodia

The Dara Sakor Seashore Resort project in southern Cambodia, initiated by a Chinese company, remains largely undeveloped even after 15 years. The goal of creating a self-contained tourist city complete with an international airport, deep-sea port, power stations, hospitals, casinos, and luxury villas has not yet materialized. Only a single casino, along with a five-star hotel and apartments, has been constructed, and the airport remains unfinished. This project has had a detrimental impact on the local environment and the thousands of people who live in the area. China's economic influence in Cambodia has surpassed that of any other country, with it providing 50% of all direct investment and a majority of foreign aid. While the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has brought some benefits, much of Chinese investment in Cambodia is speculative, rushed, and poorly planned. The rapid development of the coastal town of Sihanoukville to accommodate Chinese demand for casinos resulted in a crime wave and the subsequent collapse of the gambling economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Similar problems are feared for the Dara Sakor project. The secrecy surrounding the Dara Sakor project, as well as minimal consultation and evaluation of its impact, have raised international suspicion regarding China's intentions in this part of Cambodia. The project's origins trace back to 2008 when a Chinese construction company secured a 99-year lease for the land with a minimal deposit. However, the project violates environmental regulations and has displaced numerous families, leading to protests and opposition. The lack of environmental impact assessments and information about the project's financing, along with concerns about military use and China's dual civil-military approach to infrastructure projects, have raised alarm bells among the United States and other countries. The leading Chinese company involved in the project, UDG, has faced scrutiny over its financial stability, while another company, China City Construction Company (CCCC), has taken over its role. CCCC's troubled financial status and lack of transparency further complicate the evaluation of the project's feasibility. Overall, the large-scale development projects in Cambodia, including Dara Sakor, have caused significant environmental damage, displacement of local communities, and raised concerns about China's motives and influence in the country.