In 1993 Slhanoukville port suggested the concept of an inland clearance depot ('dry port') in the Phnom Penh area. Containers arriving in Sihanoukville could be taken by road or rail to the dry port for customs clearance, saving time and reducing inconvenience for customers based in Phnom Penh. In October 1994, it was announced that the project would go ahead under a join venture agreement with a private Singapore company.