Phnom Penh, March 19, 2024 – The Cambodian government is setting its sights on a robust revival of the tourism sector, aspiring to restore international visitor numbers to pre-pandemic levels. The Minister of Tourism, Sok Soken, expressed confidence that through collective efforts from the government, the private sector, stakeholders, and the media, Cambodia’s tourism potential and new attractions will draw tourists from around the globe.

“The return of foreign tourists, particularly from China, India, Europe, the United States, and ASEAN countries, is crucial for Cambodia's economic growth,” stated Sok Soken during a press conference hosted by the Club of Cambodian Journalists (CCJ) aimed at highlighting Siem Reap’s tourism allure.

2024 has been declared the Cambodia-China People-to-People Exchange Year and the Cambodia-India Tourism Year, signaling the government's strategic focus on these significant markets. In a move to attract more visitors from India, Cambodia Angkor Air is scheduled to inaugurate direct flights to New Delhi starting June 16.

Cambodia witnessed a remarkable recovery in tourism in 2023, welcoming approximately 5.43 million international tourists, a 139% surge from the previous year. Tourism, a cornerstone of Cambodia's economy alongside exports, agriculture, and the construction and real estate sectors, is poised for further growth.

Projections from the Ministry of Tourism estimate that international tourist arrivals could reach 7 million by 2025, exceeding the pre-pandemic record of 6.6 million in 2019. Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Angkor Archaeological Park, Preah Vihear Temple, and Sambor Prei Kuk, along with its pristine 450-kilometer coastline, positions the nation as a premier tourist destination.

As Cambodia continues to unveil its treasures, from ancient temples to untouched beaches, the revival of its tourism sector is not just anticipated but seen as a pivotal element in the nation's ongoing economic resurgence.