Cambodia's major sea port Sihanoukville began installing security items on Tuesday, procured with a grant of eight million U.S. dollars from the Japanese government, local media said on Thursday.

The upgrading will facilitate trade, boosting the coastal port's competitiveness with neighboring countries, and helping to enhance the import and export sectors, said Deputy Prime Minister Sok An, who presided over the installation ceremony on behalf of Prime Minister Hun Sen.

The apparatus includes a patrol vessel, X-ray container scanners, a security station, TV surveillance cameras and identification, navigation and oil spillage control systems, Public Works and Transport Minister Sun Chanthol was quoted by Cambodian newspaper the Koh Santepheap as saying on the same occasion.

The non-refundable aid is a contribution to fight corruption and crimes and ensure good governance in Cambodia, as well as to boost security and safety to build up confidence among foreign investors, said newly-appointed Japanese Ambassador Katsuhiro Shinohara.

According to Sun Chanthol, the Japanese government also plans to provide similar assistance to the Phnom Penh Port.

Source: Xinhua