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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: August 1, 2026In:

Cambodia is accelerating its digital finance transformation by expanding cross border QR payment connections with five ASEAN countries, strengthening its position as one of Southeast Asia’s leading digital payment hubs. Powered by the National Bank of Cambodia through the ...Read more

Cambodia is accelerating its digital finance transformation by expanding cross border QR payment connections with five ASEAN countries, strengthening its position as one of Southeast Asia’s leading digital payment hubs. Powered by the National Bank of Cambodia through the Bakong platform and the KHQR system, the initiative allows consumers, businesses, tourists, and merchants to make instant payments using standard QR codes across participating countries. The milestone reflects Cambodia’s commitment to building a more connected regional economy while making everyday transactions faster, simpler, and more affordable.

Cambodia Expands ASEAN QR Payments

As ASEAN celebrates its 59th anniversary, Cambodia’s growing payment network demonstrates how digital innovation is reshaping regional trade, tourism, and financial services. By connecting payment systems with Lao PDR, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, the Kingdom is creating new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, startups, and travelers while supporting ASEAN’s vision of a seamless digital economy.

Cambodia Expands Its Regional Digital Payment Network

Cambodia has successfully established bilateral cross border QR payment linkages with five ASEAN member states, including Lao PDR, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. This achievement places Cambodia among the region’s most digitally connected economies and highlights the country’s growing influence in financial technology and regional payment integration.

Cambodia Expands ASEAN Cross-Border QR Payment Links

The initiative is led by the National Bank of Cambodia through its Bakong digital payment platform and the KHQR system, which have become key drivers of Cambodia’s financial modernization. Together, these technologies enable users to make secure retail payments across borders using familiar QR code technology without requiring complex banking procedures.

Bakong and KHQR Make Cross Border Payments Easier

The integrated payment infrastructure allows Cambodian citizens travelling abroad and international visitors coming to Cambodia to complete instant transactions simply by scanning standardized QR codes accepted by participating payment networks. Payments are processed in local currencies, making transactions more convenient for consumers and businesses alike.

For merchants, especially small and medium sized enterprises, the system provides easier access to international customers while reducing payment friction. Tourists also benefit from cashless transactions, creating a smoother travel experience throughout participating ASEAN countries.

Cambodia Joins ASEAN’s Leading Digital Payment Economies

With five active bilateral payment connections, Cambodia now stands alongside Singapore in terms of regional QR payment integration and ranks just behind Thailand. The achievement reflects years of investment in digital financial infrastructure and demonstrates Cambodia’s ambition to become a regional leader in financial innovation.

The expanding payment ecosystem also strengthens Cambodia’s competitiveness as an investment destination by offering modern financial services that support international business operations, digital commerce, and regional economic cooperation.

ASEAN Promotes Inclusive Digital Connectivity

The ASEAN Secretariat highlighted the importance of cross border QR payment connectivity as part of the region’s broader digital transformation strategy. According to the Secretariat, interoperable payment systems are making everyday financial transactions easier for millions of people across Southeast Asia.

“The continued expansion of payment connectivity reflects ASEAN’s commitment towards inclusive and user centric payment solutions that will foster inclusive growth and economic participation across the region,” the secretariat said.

“As we journey towards the 59th ASEAN Day, this milestone reminds us that ASEAN’s digital future is about creating practical connections that people can experience in their daily lives.”

The initiative represents more than technological progress. It demonstrates ASEAN’s commitment to building practical digital solutions that improve financial inclusion, support small businesses, and strengthen regional economic integration.

Businesses, Investors, and Tourism Stand to Benefit

Financial authorities believe interoperable payment systems will reduce dependence on traditional foreign exchange channels while lowering transaction costs for businesses engaged in regional trade. Faster and more efficient payment processing can help companies improve cash flow, simplify cross border transactions, and expand business opportunities throughout ASEAN.

The tourism industry is also expected to benefit as travelers enjoy more convenient payment experiences without needing to exchange large amounts of cash. This added convenience enhances Cambodia’s appeal as a travel destination while supporting the country’s broader efforts to attract more international visitors and foreign investment. Readers can learn more from the original report published by Khmer Times.

Why This Matters for Business Leaders and Investors?

For entrepreneurs, startups, investors, and senior executives, Cambodia’s expanding QR payment network signals a rapidly evolving digital economy supported by strong financial infrastructure. Easier cross border payments reduce operational barriers, encourage regional commerce, and create new opportunities for digital businesses serving customers across Southeast Asia.

As Cambodia continues investing in financial technology and regional connectivity, businesses operating in the Kingdom will be better positioned to participate in ASEAN’s increasingly integrated digital marketplace.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s expansion of cross border QR payment connectivity marks another important step in the country’s digital transformation. By linking its payment systems with five ASEAN partners, the Kingdom is strengthening regional trade, improving the travel experience, supporting small businesses, and creating a more efficient financial ecosystem. For businesses, investors, entrepreneurs, and travelers, this growing digital infrastructure reflects Cambodia’s readiness to play a larger role in Southeast Asia’s connected economy and offers greater confidence for future investment and commercial growth.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: July 31, 2026In:

Cambodia is encouraging more travelers to discover the beauty of Siem Reap during the Green Season with the launch of the 2026 Siem Reap Tourism Service Mega Sale, which officially begins on August 1. Announced by the Ministry of ...Read more

Cambodia is encouraging more travelers to discover the beauty of Siem Reap during the Green Season with the launch of the 2026 Siem Reap Tourism Service Mega Sale, which officially begins on August 1. Announced by the Ministry of Tourism, the nationwide campaign offers discounts of up to 50 percent on selected tourism services, making it more affordable for both domestic and international visitors to experience one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic destinations. The initiative aims to stimulate tourism during the quieter rainy season while supporting local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and tour operators across Siem Reap.

Green Season Siem Reap Savings

The campaign comes at an important time for Cambodia’s tourism industry as the country works to boost visitor numbers following a decline in international arrivals to Angkor Archaeological Park during the first half of 2026. By offering significant savings and promoting online booking through the official tourism platform, the government hopes to encourage more travelers to explore Siem Reap’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and hospitality while strengthening the local economy.

Tourism Industry Joins Forces for a Major Green Season Campaign

The Ministry of Tourism is working closely with the Siem Reap Chapter of the Cambodia Hotel Association, the Siem Reap Tourism Club Association, and tourism businesses throughout the province to make the promotional campaign a success. Their collaboration reflects a shared commitment to revitalizing tourism during the Green Season and attracting more visitors to Cambodia’s leading tourism destination.

2026 Siem Reap Tourism Service Mega Sale

Under this pilot initiative, participating three star, four star, and five star hotels and tourism operators will offer discounts ranging from 10 percent to 50 percent on selected tourism services. The promotion is designed to benefit travelers while helping tourism businesses maintain stronger occupancy rates and customer demand during the traditionally quieter months.

Travelers Can Easily Access Exclusive Discounts

Visitors interested in taking advantage of the Green Season promotion can conveniently reserve their travel packages through the official tourism website at http://www.cambodiawonder.com. The online platform allows travelers to explore participating offers and secure discounted bookings before arriving in Siem Reap.

The Ministry of Tourism also encouraged both Cambodian and international travelers to share the campaign with family, friends, and colleagues. Increasing awareness of the promotion is expected to generate more travel activity while contributing to the continued recovery and long term growth of Cambodia’s tourism sector.

Why the Green Season Is Worth Experiencing

Although the Green Season runs from May to October, many experienced travelers consider it one of the best times to visit Cambodia. The rainy season transforms the countryside into vibrant green landscapes, while short afternoon showers often leave mornings and evenings pleasant for sightseeing.

Another major advantage is the significantly smaller number of tourists compared with the peak travel season. Visitors can enjoy world famous attractions such as Angkor Wat with fewer crowds, creating a more peaceful and memorable travel experience while often benefiting from lower accommodation costs.

Tourism Recovery Remains a National Priority

The promotional campaign follows recent tourism data showing that Angkor Archaeological Park welcomed 387,772 international visitors during the first half of 2026. While the destination remains Cambodia’s most visited cultural attraction, this represented a 31 percent decline compared with the same period in 2025.

The latest Green Season initiative demonstrates the government’s proactive approach to supporting tourism businesses, increasing visitor arrivals, and reinforcing Cambodia’s reputation as a competitive and attractive destination for leisure travelers, investors in hospitality, and tourism entrepreneurs.

What This Means for Businesses, Investors, and Travel Professionals

The Green Season Mega Sale creates new opportunities for hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, restaurants, transport providers, and tourism startups to attract more customers during a traditionally slower period. Higher visitor numbers can generate additional revenue while encouraging greater collaboration across Cambodia’s tourism ecosystem.

For investors and business leaders, the campaign signals the government’s continued commitment to strengthening the tourism industry through strategic partnerships, digital marketing, and destination promotion. These initiatives help improve business confidence while supporting sustainable growth across Cambodia’s hospitality sector.

Conclusion

The 2026 Siem Reap Tourism Service Mega Sale offers travelers an excellent opportunity to explore Cambodia’s cultural capital while enjoying discounts of up to 50 percent. Beyond helping visitors save money, the campaign supports local businesses, promotes year round tourism, and contributes to the recovery of one of Cambodia’s most important economic sectors. For travelers, entrepreneurs, and investors alike, the initiative reflects Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to build a stronger, more resilient, and globally competitive tourism industry.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: July 31, 2026In: ,

Cambodia has taken another significant step toward strengthening its position in regional and global trade after the Senate unanimously approved four major international and ASEAN trade agreements. The decision was made during an extraordinary session of the Senate’s fifth ...Read more

Cambodia has taken another significant step toward strengthening its position in regional and global trade after the Senate unanimously approved four major international and ASEAN trade agreements. The decision was made during an extraordinary session of the Senate’s fifth mandate in Phnom Penh on Wednesday, with all 58 senators voting in favor. The agreements are designed to improve aviation financing, remove technical trade barriers, raise product and industry standards, and deepen Cambodia’s integration into the ASEAN economy.

Senate passes 4 major trade deals to ignite aviation and regional commerce

The newly approved laws support the country’s long term economic strategy by making it easier for businesses to access international markets, attract investment, modernize key industries, and improve regional competitiveness. For business owners, investors, manufacturers, exporters, and the tourism sector, these agreements create new opportunities while reinforcing Cambodia’s commitment to international standards and sustainable economic growth.

Cambodia Strengthens Aviation Through the Cape Town Convention

One of the most important measures approved by the Senate authorizes Cambodia to join the Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment, better known as the Cape Town Convention, together with its Aircraft Protocol. This international treaty creates a legal framework that protects financing interests in valuable aviation assets such as aircraft, aircraft engines, and helicopters.

By joining the convention, Cambodia is expected to make aircraft financing more affordable and attractive for investors and financial institutions. Lower financing costs could accelerate airport expansion, support the growth of the civil aviation industry, improve domestic and international air connectivity, and contribute to tourism development. A stronger aviation sector also benefits trade by making the movement of goods and travelers more efficient while supporting the modernization of Cambodia’s national airline fleet. More information about the treaty is available through the official https://www.unidroit.org/instruments/security-interests/cape-town-convention/ website.

The draft law was presented by Chheav Yiseang, Chairman of the Senate’s Commission on Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Information. Three senators participated in the discussion before Permanent Secretary of State for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation Kim Sophan responded to their questions.

ASEAN Recognition Framework to Remove Trade Barriers

The Senate also approved the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Mutual Recognition Arrangements, an important agreement that establishes common ASEAN principles for recognizing products and services across member countries.

For Cambodian businesses, this agreement could significantly reduce the need for repeated product testing when exporting goods to neighboring markets. Lower compliance costs, faster certification processes, and fewer technical obstacles will help exporters compete more effectively across ASEAN. The agreement also provides sector specific bodies with a common framework to negotiate recognition arrangements that support smoother regional trade and stronger economic cooperation.

Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Hem Vanndy addressed senators after four members participated in the debate, highlighting the importance of aligning Cambodia’s industries with regional standards to improve competitiveness and facilitate cross border commerce.

Higher Standards for Cambodia’s Construction Industry

Another approved agreement focuses on the ASEAN Sectoral Mutual Recognition Arrangement for Building and Construction Materials. The initiative seeks to harmonize technical regulations, certification procedures, inspections, product testing, verification, and registration standards throughout ASEAN.

For Cambodia’s construction and infrastructure sectors, this agreement is expected to improve the quality and safety of both imported and exported building materials. Businesses should also benefit from reduced certification costs and faster approval procedures, making it easier to participate in regional supply chains. As Cambodia continues investing in infrastructure and urban development, stronger technical standards will increase investor confidence while supporting local manufacturers looking to expand into ASEAN markets.

The agreement also positions Cambodia’s building materials industry to become more competitive by encouraging greater regional cooperation and attracting new investment into manufacturing and construction related industries.

Automotive Agreement Supports Manufacturing Growth

The fourth agreement approved by the Senate is the ASEAN Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Type Approval for Automotive Products. The arrangement establishes common regional procedures for recognizing testing, certification, inspection, verification, and registration results for automotive products among ASEAN member states.

The agreement is expected to reduce both the cost and time required for testing vehicles and automotive components while improving safety and environmental standards across the region. For Cambodia, this supports the government’s ambition to expand its growing vehicle assembly and auto parts manufacturing industries and strengthen participation in ASEAN’s automotive value chain.

As more manufacturers establish operations in Cambodia, harmonized regional standards could improve export opportunities while making the country a more attractive destination for investment in automotive production and supporting industries.

Senate Reaffirms Cambodia’s Long Term Economic Vision

The four draft laws, each consisting of two articles, were previously approved unanimously by the National Assembly on July 14 during its sixth session of the seventh legislature before receiving final approval from the Senate.

Speaking to Khmer Times, Second Vice President of the Senate Thun Vathana described the agreements as an important reflection of Cambodia’s long term vision to become a trusted and competitive partner in both regional and global markets.

“Economic growth increasingly depends on cooperation, harmonised standards, and mutual trust among countries. These four agreements embody precisely those principles,” he said.

Vathana also emphasized that stronger international cooperation depends on countries adopting shared standards and removing unnecessary trade barriers.

“By becoming a party to these agreements, Cambodia demonstrates that we are committed to transparency, predictability, and constructive engagement with our regional and international partners,” he added.

Why These Agreements Matter for Businesses and Investors?

For businesses operating in Cambodia, the Senate’s approval sends a strong signal that the country continues to align its legal and regulatory framework with international best practices. Lower financing costs for aviation, simplified export procedures, harmonized technical standards, and stronger regional recognition systems all contribute to a more competitive business environment.

Investors, manufacturers, logistics providers, tourism operators, and exporters stand to benefit from improved market access, greater regulatory certainty, and stronger integration with ASEAN supply chains. These reforms also reinforce Cambodia’s attractiveness as a regional investment destination while supporting long term economic resilience.

Conclusion

The Senate’s unanimous approval of four major international and ASEAN agreements marks another milestone in Cambodia’s journey toward deeper regional integration and sustainable economic growth. By strengthening aviation financing, removing technical barriers to trade, improving industry standards, and supporting manufacturing development, the country is creating a stronger foundation for investment, exports, tourism, and industrial expansion. As Cambodia continues embracing internationally recognized standards, businesses and investors are likely to find even greater opportunities in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest evolving economies.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: July 31, 2026In:

Cambodia is taking another step toward strengthening its digital economy by working with the Philippines to establish a bilateral cross border QR code payment system. The initiative, announced by the National Bank of Cambodia earlier this week, is expected ...Read more

Cambodia is taking another step toward strengthening its digital economy by working with the Philippines to establish a bilateral cross border QR code payment system. The initiative, announced by the National Bank of Cambodia earlier this week, is expected to make retail payments between the two countries faster, easier, and more secure while encouraging the use of local currencies in trade and tourism. The planned partnership reflects Cambodia’s ongoing commitment to expanding financial technology and improving regional economic connectivity.

Cambodia–Philippines Digital Payment Bridge

The proposed payment link is part of the National Bank of Cambodia’s broader strategy to integrate its digital payment infrastructure with neighboring and regional markets. As Cambodia continues to modernize its financial ecosystem through the Bakong payment system, businesses, investors, tourists, and consumers are expected to benefit from more convenient cross border transactions and stronger economic cooperation across Southeast Asia.

Cambodia and the Philippines Explore Cross Border QR Payments

The National Bank of Cambodia is currently in discussions with the Philippines to introduce a bilateral QR code payment connection. Once implemented, the system will allow users in both countries to make seamless digital payments by simply scanning QR codes, making retail transactions more convenient for businesses, travelers, and consumers.

According to the central bank’s latest biannual report, the initiative is designed to improve cross border payment efficiency while supporting greater use of local currencies in commercial activities and tourism. The move also demonstrates Cambodia’s ambition to deepen financial integration within the region and create a more connected digital economy.

Bakong Continues to Drive Cambodia’s Digital Transformation

Cambodia’s digital payment progress has largely been driven by the Bakong payment system, which has become one of the country’s most significant financial technology innovations. Governor Chea Serey emphasized that financial technology is playing an increasingly important role in expanding formal financial services, promoting the use of the Cambodian riel, and supporting both domestic economic growth and international integration.

“Through the Bakong payment system, Cambodia is also internationally recognised for developing one of the world’s leading modern payment systems, and many central banks have been drawing on Cambodia’s experience for further implementation,” she said.

She also noted that Bakong continues to expand its capabilities by strengthening connections with regional countries and international payment networks, supporting Cambodia’s broader digital economy and social development goals.

International Partnerships Strengthen Cambodia’s Payment Network

The National Bank of Cambodia continues to work closely with major international payment providers to improve the country’s payment ecosystem and support tourism growth.

Through the Bakong Tourist application, international visitors can connect their MasterCard and Visa payment cards and make payments by scanning KHQR codes just like local users. This reduces dependence on cash while making travel throughout Cambodia more convenient and efficient.

The payment network has also expanded through partnerships with UnionPay and Alipay, allowing international visitors to complete transactions using familiar mobile payment platforms.

Following a memorandum of understanding signed with TenPay Global in late 2025, Cambodia is also preparing to strengthen payment connectivity with China. The first phase of this project is expected to launch during the second half of 2026 and will expand cooperation between Cambodia’s Bakong system and China’s Weixin Pay mobile payment platform.

Cambodia’s Growing Regional QR Payment Network

Cambodia has steadily expanded its international QR payment network over the past few years. Today, its cross border QR payment system is already connected with Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, South Korea, China, and Japan. Adding the Philippines would further strengthen Cambodia’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s leading adopters of digital payment technology.

Since its launch in October 2020, Bakong has evolved into a nationwide peer to peer payment platform connecting banks, financial institutions, and payment service providers across Cambodia. Its continued expansion highlights the country’s commitment to building a modern, inclusive, and internationally connected financial system.

For more information, readers can visit the National Bank of Cambodia and the original report published by Khmer Times.

What Does This Mean for Businesses, Investors, and Tourism?

The planned QR payment connection with the Philippines offers significant opportunities for Cambodia’s business community. Companies engaged in cross border trade will benefit from simpler and more efficient payment processes, while tourism operators can provide international visitors with a familiar and convenient payment experience.

For entrepreneurs and startups, stronger regional payment connectivity creates new opportunities to develop digital commerce, financial technology services, and cross border business models. Investors may also view Cambodia’s expanding digital payment ecosystem as evidence of the country’s commitment to financial innovation and regional economic integration.

As Cambodia continues to build partnerships across Asia, its modern payment infrastructure will play an increasingly important role in attracting investment, supporting tourism, and improving the overall ease of doing business.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s planned QR payment partnership with the Philippines marks another important milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. By expanding the reach of the Bakong payment system and strengthening regional financial connectivity, Cambodia is creating a more efficient environment for trade, investment, tourism, and digital commerce. As additional international partnerships come online, the country’s position as a regional leader in digital payments is expected to become even stronger.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: July 30, 2026In:

Cambodia’s tourism industry faced a challenging first half of 2026 as international visitor numbers dropped sharply, leading to a significant decline in tourism revenue. According to figures released by the National Bank of Cambodia on July 30, 2026, the ...Read more

Cambodia’s tourism industry faced a challenging first half of 2026 as international visitor numbers dropped sharply, leading to a significant decline in tourism revenue. According to figures released by the National Bank of Cambodia on July 30, 2026, the country earned $1.4 billion from international tourism during the first six months of the year, a decline of 31.5 percent compared with the same period in 2025. While the slowdown raised concerns for businesses that rely on overseas travelers, a remarkable increase in domestic tourism helped reduce the overall impact on the industry. The latest figures highlight both the vulnerabilities and resilience of Cambodia’s tourism sector as it adapts to changing global conditions.

Cambodia Tourism Revenue Slumps 31.5% as Foreign Arrivals Plunge, Domestic Travel Surges 50%

The decline reflects several external challenges, including regional border disruptions, geopolitical instability, reduced international flight connectivity, and concerns surrounding Cambodia’s international image. Despite these obstacles, local travel continued to grow rapidly, demonstrating strong domestic demand and creating new opportunities for tourism operators, investors, hospitality businesses, and destination developers across the country.

International Tourism Revenue Records Sharp Decline

The National Bank of Cambodia reported that international tourism revenue reached $1.4 billion during the first half of 2026, representing a 31.5 percent decline compared with the same period last year. Tourism sector growth also slowed significantly, expanding by only 0.1 percent compared with 6.1 percent a year earlier.

International visitor arrivals dropped to 1.8 million, a steep decline from 3.4 million visitors during the first half of 2025. Even after excluding travelers from Thailand, foreign arrivals still decreased by 29.6 percent, highlighting broader weakness across Cambodia’s international tourism markets. More details are available from the National Bank of Cambodia’s official reports.

Key Tourism Markets Continue to Support Cambodia

Despite the overall decline, China remained Cambodia’s largest international tourism market, contributing 25.8 percent of total arrivals. Vietnam ranked second with 25.6 percent, while the United States accounted for 6 percent of all foreign visitors.

These figures show that regional markets continue to play a vital role in Cambodia’s tourism recovery. For tourism businesses, airlines, hotels, travel agencies, and investors, strengthening relationships with these core markets will remain essential for rebuilding visitor numbers during the second half of the year.

Multiple Factors Behind the Slowdown

Several issues combined to weaken Cambodia’s tourism performance during the first half of 2026. One of the biggest challenges was the closure of the Cambodia Thailand land border, which significantly reduced cross border travel. At the same time, international media attention surrounding online scam operations affected Cambodia’s tourism reputation.

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East also contributed to weaker travel demand. Weekly flights between Cambodia and Middle Eastern destinations fell from approximately 52 services to just 44, reducing connectivity and limiting travel options for international visitors.

Air Travel Declines While Angkor Revenue Falls

Foreign arrivals through Cambodia’s airports declined by 22.8 percent during the first half of the year. Visitor arrivals by land and waterways experienced an even steeper fall of 66.4 percent, reflecting the heavy impact of border restrictions.

The slowdown also affected Cambodia’s most iconic tourism destination. Ticket revenue at Angkor Archaeological Park declined by 29.8 percent to $18.5 million, demonstrating how fewer international visitors directly impacted one of the country’s most important tourism assets.

Domestic Tourism Becomes the Bright Spot

While international tourism weakened, domestic travel expanded rapidly. Cambodian residents made 21.9 million domestic trips during the first half of 2026, representing impressive growth of 50.5 percent compared with the previous year.

Phnom Penh attracted the largest share of domestic travelers at 63.4 percent, followed by Cambodia’s coastal destinations with 24 percent. Siem Reap welcomed 6.8 percent of domestic visitors, while ecotourism destinations accounted for 1.3 percent. According to the National Bank of Cambodia, new tourism products, festivals, and supporting events helped encourage more Cambodians to travel within the country.

Industry Sees Long Term Recovery Opportunities

Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia chairman Thourn Sinan said the slowdown reflected global uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and intensifying competition in ASEAN, but welcomed the government’s crackdown on online scam networks, saying it could help restore Cambodia’s image.

His assessment suggests that while current challenges remain significant, improving Cambodia’s international reputation could strengthen traveler confidence and support future tourism recovery.

Second Half Recovery Becomes Increasingly Important

Cambodia welcomed 5.57 million international visitors in 2025, a decrease of 16.7 percent from the previous year. However, tourism revenue still increased by 6.6 percent to $3.88 billion, showing that visitor spending remained relatively strong.

The government is targeting between 5.6 million and 5.8 million international tourists in 2026. Achieving that goal will depend heavily on stronger performance during the second half of the year. For businesses, investors, airlines, hotels, and tourism operators, the coming months will be critical in determining whether Cambodia can regain momentum and restore confidence in one of its most important economic sectors.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s tourism industry is navigating a difficult period shaped by regional disruptions and global uncertainty. Although international arrivals and tourism revenue have fallen sharply, the strong growth in domestic travel demonstrates that demand for tourism remains active within the country. Continued efforts to improve Cambodia’s international image, strengthen connectivity, develop new tourism experiences, and attract key overseas markets will be essential to achieving a stronger recovery. For investors and tourism businesses, the sector continues to present long term opportunities as Cambodia works toward rebuilding visitor confidence and sustainable growth.

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