Cambodia is stepping up efforts to restore its tourism industry as the government and private sector explore a wide range of solutions to attract more international visitors.

During a Progress Review Meeting of the Tourism Working Group held in Phnom Penh earlier this week, officials discussed visa exemptions for key target markets, stronger destination marketing, better air connectivity, and investment incentives. The meeting comes at a time when the country is facing a slowdown in international arrivals due to global economic pressures, regional tensions, and negative publicity affecting traveller confidence. Together, these measures aim to rebuild Cambodia’s image and strengthen the tourism sector for long term growth.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of close cooperation between the government and businesses in overcoming current challenges. While tourism has faced several setbacks in recent months, officials believe coordinated action, strategic investment, and targeted policy reforms will help restore momentum and position Cambodia as a more competitive destination across the region.

Government and Private Sector Join Forces to Support Tourism Recovery

Minister of Tourism Huot Hak chaired the Progress Review Meeting of the Tourism Working Group under the Government Private Sector Forum, bringing together around 150 representatives from government institutions, tourism associations, businesses, and industry stakeholders.

The gathering reviewed progress on existing tourism initiatives, examined current challenges, and considered new proposals from the private sector. Officials agreed that stronger collaboration between public institutions and businesses remains essential to rebuilding confidence and encouraging more international visitors to choose Cambodia.

International Arrivals Face Growing Challenges

Speaking at the meeting, Hak acknowledged that Cambodia experienced a noticeable decline in international tourist arrivals during the first half of the year. Several factors have contributed to the slowdown, including negative publicity surrounding technology enabled scams, border related issues between Cambodia and Thailand, and ongoing conflict in the Middle East that has pushed up fuel prices and increased travel costs.

Despite these challenges, the minister stressed that the government has already introduced several support measures for tourism businesses. He also reaffirmed that public and private cooperation will play a vital role in turning current difficulties into future opportunities.

Progress Made Through Tourism Development Initiatives

Participants welcomed the successful completion of 22 tourism related measures that have already been implemented through the Tourism Working Group.

Among the latest achievements are the development of the Phnom Kulen area as a nature based tourism destination and the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to establish Green Belts in tourism areas. The initiative is expected to strengthen sustainable tourism while improving agricultural value chains connected to local destinations.

Visa Exemptions and Better Connectivity Under Discussion

One of the most significant proposals discussed during the meeting was the possibility of introducing visa exemptions for priority tourism markets to encourage more international arrivals.

Other recommendations included establishing a tourism development fund to strengthen destination branding and overseas marketing campaigns, upgrading major national festivals into internationally recognised events, improving domestic flight connections between tourism destinations, and creating a more attractive investment environment for tourism related businesses.

Participants also examined ways to increase direct international flight connections from key tourism markets. Achieving this goal will require close coordination between aviation authorities, airlines, tourism operators, and the private sector.

Practical Measures Aim to Restore Cambodia’s Global Image

As the meeting concluded, participants agreed on a number of practical recommendations designed to rebuild Cambodia’s international reputation and restore traveller confidence.

These proposals include expanding tourism marketing campaigns, attracting more international conferences and events, promoting domestic travel, and strengthening Cambodia’s presence in global tourism markets. Officials believe these combined efforts will help the country regain competitiveness and support long term tourism growth.

Air Cargo Continues Growing Despite Passenger Decline

While international passenger traffic has weakened, Cambodia’s aviation sector continues to show strength in cargo operations. According to the latest report from the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, the country’s airports handled 3.7 million passengers during the first seven months of 2026, representing a 9 percent decline compared with the same period last year.

At the same time, air cargo volumes reached 57,102 tonnes, marking a strong 21 percent year on year increase. Cambodia’s three main international airports recorded a combined 37,248 inbound and outbound flights during the period, remaining unchanged from 2025.

Economic Pressures Continue to Affect Travel Demand

Secretary of State and SSCA spokesman Sinn Chanserey Vutha said global economic conditions continue to weigh on international travel demand.

“Inflationary pressures and uneven macroeconomic recovery across key source markets have affected regional tourism and optional journeys,” Vutha told Khmer Times.

The report also noted that Cambodia remains well connected internationally, with 33 airlines operating scheduled services linking the country with destinations across ASEAN, East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. The government’s long term aviation strategy targets 8 million passengers and 112,000 tonnes of air cargo by 2027 while positioning Cambodia as a regional aviation hub.

Conclusion

Cambodia is pursuing an ambitious strategy to revitalise its tourism industry through stronger government and private sector cooperation, visa policy reforms, enhanced destination marketing, and improved air connectivity. Although international visitor numbers have slowed amid global economic uncertainty and regional challenges, ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure and aviation demonstrate the country’s commitment to long term growth. If these proposed measures are successfully implemented, Cambodia will be better positioned to restore traveller confidence, attract more visitors, and strengthen its role as one of Southeast Asia’s leading tourism destinations.

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Old Siem Reap International Airport to Become a New Multi Functional Development Zone

The former Siem Reap International Airport is preparing for a major transformation after years of serving as one of Cambodia’s key aviation gateways. In early August 2026, Angkor International Airport Investment (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. (AIAI), the developer behind Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, announced plans to redevelop the former airport site into a modern multi functional development zone in Siem Reap Province. The project aims to give new life to the historic airport while creating fresh opportunities for tourism, business, entertainment, and economic growth.

The announcement was made during a meeting between Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism, H.E. Huot Hak, and Mr. Lu Wei, Chairman of Angkor International Airport Investment (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. The discussion focused on strengthening tourism, expanding air connectivity, and encouraging more investment in Siem Reap, one of Cambodia’s most important tourism destinations. The redevelopment reflects a broader effort to maximize the value of the former airport after operations moved to the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport.

A New Vision for the Former Airport Site

According to Mr. Lu Wei, the redevelopment project will convert the old airport into a vibrant mixed use destination that combines tourism services, commercial activities, entertainment facilities, and various economic projects. Instead of leaving the site unused, the company plans to transform it into a dynamic area that supports both visitors and local businesses while contributing to Siem Reap’s long term economic development.

Minister Huot Hak welcomed the proposal and expressed his support for the project. He encouraged the development team to conduct comprehensive studies and prepare a detailed master plan that prioritizes sustainability, inclusiveness, and long term benefits for the province. The goal is to ensure the redevelopment creates lasting value while complementing Siem Reap’s growing tourism industry.

Preserving the Legacy of a Historic Airport

The former Siem Reap International Airport has played an important role in Cambodia’s aviation history for decades. It first opened in 1932 during the French colonial period and underwent major improvements in 1955 during the Sangkum Reastr Niyum era. In 1970, airport operations were suspended because of the civil conflict in Cambodia before reopening again in 2006 to support the country’s growing tourism sector.

For many years, the airport welcomed millions of international travelers visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park and helped establish Siem Reap as one of Southeast Asia’s leading cultural tourism destinations. Its redevelopment marks the beginning of a new chapter while preserving the significance of its historic role.

Why the Airport Was Closed?

The former airport officially ceased operations on October 16, 2023, when all commercial flights were transferred to the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport located in Sotr Nikum District. The relocation was designed to protect the ancient Angkor temples from aircraft vibrations while also allowing Cambodia to accommodate larger aircraft and increase international air traffic capacity.

The new airport provides modern infrastructure and greater operational capacity, positioning Cambodia to welcome more international visitors and support future tourism growth. Meanwhile, the redevelopment of the former airport site ensures that the valuable land continues contributing to the province’s economy instead of remaining inactive.

For additional background on Cambodia’s aviation and tourism developments, readers can visit the Ministry of Tourism’s official website and the official website of Siem Reap Angkor International Airport.

What Does This Mean for Cambodia?

The redevelopment of the former Siem Reap International Airport represents more than a simple land conversion. It reflects Cambodia’s strategy of modernizing its infrastructure while creating new economic opportunities from existing assets. By turning the historic airport into a multi functional development zone, Siem Reap could attract more investment, generate new jobs, expand tourism services, and strengthen its position as one of the country’s leading economic and tourism hubs.

Conclusion

The transformation of the former Siem Reap International Airport into a multi functional development zone signals a new era for one of Cambodia’s most recognizable aviation landmarks. While the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport continues to serve international travelers, the historic airport site is expected to find new purpose through tourism, commerce, entertainment, and investment. If implemented successfully, the project could become another major milestone in Siem Reap’s ongoing development and reinforce Cambodia’s vision for sustainable economic growth.

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Cambodia is strengthening its efforts to attract more international visitors through a comprehensive global marketing strategy that targets travelers, tourism businesses, airlines, and government partners. The Cambodia Tourism Board has introduced this multi channel approach as part of its first and second quarter initiatives to increase international arrivals, build stronger industry partnerships, and reshape Cambodia’s image as a world class travel destination. By combining digital promotion, international cooperation, trade partnerships, and destination marketing, the Board aims to create sustainable growth for the country’s tourism sector in the months and years ahead.

The strategy reflects Cambodia’s long term vision of becoming a more competitive destination in the global tourism market. Instead of relying on a single promotional method, the Board is working across four key business channels to reach different audiences while encouraging new travel experiences, expanding tourism packages, and creating stronger international connections.

Four Marketing Channels Drive Cambodia’s Tourism Strategy

According to the Cambodia Tourism Board’s first and second quarter reports, the international marketing strategy is built around four core business channels. These include Business to Customer, Business to Business, Business to Business to Customer, and Business to Government. Each channel serves a different purpose while contributing to the common goal of increasing visitor arrivals and strengthening Cambodia’s tourism industry.

Together, these four approaches allow Cambodia to promote its attractions directly to travelers, work closely with travel businesses, develop joint marketing campaigns with airline partners, and expand international cooperation with governments and tourism organizations. This coordinated strategy is expected to strengthen Cambodia’s position in key tourism markets around the world.

Reaching Global Travelers Through Digital Promotion

The Business to Customer strategy focuses on promoting Cambodia directly to international travelers through global media coverage, digital marketing campaigns, influencer collaborations, and film tourism projects that showcase the country’s cultural heritage and natural attractions.

During the first half of the year, the Cambodia Tourism Board welcomed representatives from ten international media organizations, including Wanderlust, The Guardian UK, and the South China Morning Post. It also hosted twenty content creators from Australia and India who produced travel focused content to inspire international audiences to visit Cambodia. These efforts are designed to modernize global perceptions of the Kingdom and increase awareness across important tourism markets.

Strengthening Partnerships With Travel Industry Professionals

The Business to Business strategy is designed to build stronger relationships with international travel agents, tour operators, and tourism companies. The Board is achieving this through familiarization trips, participation in international tourism exhibitions, overseas sales missions, and industry networking events.

Since March 2026, 145 international travel agents have joined the Board’s ambitious 500 Agent FAM Trip Program. The initiative allows overseas travel professionals to experience Cambodia firsthand before developing and promoting new travel packages for their customers. More information about the program is available through the original report published by Cambodia Investment Review.

The Board has also represented Cambodia at seventeen international travel trade exhibitions while conducting six sales missions and roadshows across Austria, Spain, Vietnam, Singapore, the Philippines, India, China, and South Korea. These activities continue to strengthen business relationships and expand Cambodia’s presence in competitive tourism markets.

Airline Partnerships Aim to Increase Visitor Bookings

The Business to Business to Customer strategy focuses on turning promotional campaigns into actual visitor bookings by working directly with airlines and travel platforms. This collaborative approach helps increase Cambodia’s visibility while making travel planning easier for international visitors.

The Cambodia Tourism Board has established partnerships with major international airlines including Singapore Airlines, AirAsia, EVA Air, Etihad Airways, and Turkish Airlines. These partnerships support joint marketing campaigns that encourage more travelers to choose Cambodia as their next holiday destination while improving the country’s visibility across global travel networks.

International Cooperation Supports Long Term Tourism Growth

The Business to Government strategy strengthens cooperation between Cambodia and international tourism authorities as well as global tourism organizations. These partnerships focus on long term destination development, policy cooperation, and knowledge sharing that will help improve Cambodia’s tourism competitiveness.

To support these goals, the Cambodia Tourism Board has introduced three flagship initiatives. These include the 500 Agent FAM Trip Program, an Event Matching Grant that provides financial support for events capable of attracting overseas visitors, and a Film Location Scouting Program that encourages international film producers to choose Cambodia as a filming destination. These initiatives are expected to create long lasting benefits for the tourism sector by attracting visitors through multiple channels.

Tourism Growth Will Take Time to Build

The Cambodia Tourism Board acknowledged that the benefits of its international marketing strategy will not appear immediately. Most international travelers plan and book their holidays between three and nine months before departure. Likewise, travel agents participating in familiarization trips need additional time to design, market, and sell Cambodia travel packages before visitor numbers begin to increase.

Despite this gradual timeline, tourism industry stakeholders have welcomed the coordinated marketing strategy. Many believe the four channel approach represents an important step toward improving Cambodia’s international reputation while creating sustainable growth for the tourism industry over the long term.

Conclusion

Cambodia is taking a more strategic and collaborative approach to tourism promotion by investing in global marketing, international partnerships, airline cooperation, and government engagement. Through its four channel marketing strategy, the Cambodia Tourism Board is laying the foundation for stronger international visitor growth and a more competitive tourism industry. While the results may take time to become visible, the comprehensive approach demonstrates Cambodia’s commitment to building a sustainable and globally recognized tourism destination.

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Cambodia and Belgium are taking new steps to strengthen their tourism partnership while expanding cooperation through the global Francophonie community. During a meeting in Phnom Penh on Monday, Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism Huot Hak welcomed Belgian Ambassador to Cambodia Michel Parys to discuss practical ways to increase tourist arrivals, encourage investment, and prepare for Belgium’s participation in the 20th Francophonie Summit, which Cambodia will host this November. The meeting reflected both countries’ commitment to building stronger people to people connections while creating more opportunities for tourism and business.

The discussions also highlighted Cambodia’s growing reputation as a safe and attractive travel destination. With international tourism steadily recovering, both governments are looking for new ways to promote travel, strengthen business partnerships, and showcase Cambodia to a wider audience through international events and tourism campaigns.

Cambodia Promotes Itself as a Safe Destination

During the meeting, Tourism Minister Huot Hak expressed appreciation for Belgium’s continued friendship and support. He emphasized Cambodia’s political stability and peaceful environment, describing the Kingdom as a welcoming destination for international visitors and investors alike.

The minister also highlighted the Ministry of Tourism’s ongoing promotional campaigns, including Kingdom of Wonder, Feel the Warmth and Visit Cambodia in Green Season. These initiatives are designed to encourage travelers to explore Cambodia throughout the year while experiencing its culture, heritage, natural attractions, and hospitality.

New Tourism Cooperation Plans Take Shape

Recognizing the growing number of Belgian visitors and hospitality investors, Minister Hak proposed several initiatives aimed at expanding tourism cooperation between the two countries.

The proposals include signing a formal tourism Memorandum of Understanding, organizing familiarization trips for Belgian media representatives and tour operators, holding a bilateral tourism investment forum, and encouraging direct business partnerships between tourism companies from both nations. These efforts are expected to strengthen travel promotion while opening new investment opportunities within Cambodia’s tourism sector.

Francophonie Summit Offers Greater International Exposure

A major focus of the discussion was the upcoming 20th Francophonie Summit, which Phnom Penh will host this November. The international gathering presents an opportunity for Cambodia to showcase its tourism potential to French speaking countries and strengthen diplomatic and cultural cooperation.

Belgian Ambassador Michel Parys confirmed that Belgium will send a high level delegation to attend the summit. He also said Belgium will actively participate in the Village Francophonie side event organized by Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism, further demonstrating the country’s commitment to closer cooperation.

Belgium Reaffirms Longstanding Friendship

Ambassador Parys noted that Cambodia and Belgium have maintained strong diplomatic relations since restoring official ties in 1992. He reaffirmed Belgium’s interest in expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, with tourism serving as an important pillar of the bilateral relationship.

As Cambodia prepares to welcome delegates from across the Francophone world, both countries see tourism as an effective way to deepen economic cooperation, strengthen cultural exchanges, and build lasting partnerships between businesses and communities.

Conclusion

The meeting between Cambodia and Belgium highlights a shared commitment to expanding tourism, encouraging investment, and strengthening international cooperation. With new initiatives under discussion and the Francophonie Summit approaching, Cambodia is positioning itself as a leading destination for global travelers while creating fresh opportunities for tourism businesses and investors. As bilateral ties continue to grow, both countries stand to benefit from stronger economic, cultural, and people centered partnerships.

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Cambodia is accelerating its ambition to become one of Southeast Asia’s leading aviation hubs by positioning the newly built Techo International Airport as a major regional gateway for passengers and cargo over the next five to ten years. The government’s long term strategy was presented in Phnom Penh during a briefing by the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation to a Senate Commission, highlighting recent achievements in the aviation sector, ongoing airport development, and plans to strengthen Cambodia’s connectivity with the region and the world. The initiative is expected to support economic growth, attract more international airlines, boost tourism, and create new opportunities for trade and investment.

At the heart of this vision is Techo International Airport, Cambodia’s newest international airport located around 20 kilometres south of Phnom Penh across Kandal and Takeo provinces. Designed to accommodate some of the world’s largest commercial aircraft, the airport is expected to transform Cambodia into a stronger aviation destination while reducing its dependence on regional transit hubs.

Techo International Airport Leads Cambodia’s Aviation Vision

The State Secretariat of Civil Aviation outlined its long term roadmap during a meeting with members of the Senate Commission, showcasing the country’s progress in expanding airport infrastructure, improving air transport services, and strengthening international connectivity.

Minister in charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation Mao Havannall said Cambodia is determined to position Techo International Airport as a strategic aviation gateway for the region.

“Our vision over the next five to 10 years is to transform Cambodia into a regional aviation hub by developing Techo International Airport into a major entry and exit gateway as well as a regional passenger and cargo transit centre,” Havannall said.

The airport has been built to international 4F standards, enabling it to serve wide body aircraft including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747. This capability will significantly improve Cambodia’s ability to welcome direct long haul flights from more destinations around the world.

Modern Aircraft and Expanding Airline Networks

Beyond airport infrastructure, Cambodia is also investing in the future of its airline industry by encouraging the use of modern and more efficient aircraft.

Havannall said the government’s aviation strategy includes expanding operations with next generation aircraft such as the Airbus A320neo, Boeing 737 MAX, and COMAC C909. These aircraft are expected to improve operational efficiency while supporting the country’s growing passenger and cargo demands.

The aviation sector has also achieved several important milestones that demonstrate increasing international confidence in Cambodia’s aviation industry.

Open Skies Agreement Creates New Opportunities

One of the most significant developments is Cambodia’s newly signed Open Skies Agreement with the United States, which is expected to strengthen international passenger and cargo services between the two countries.

The agreement creates greater opportunities for international cargo operators, including FedEx Express, while encouraging additional air services that could expand trade and investment between Cambodia and North America.

At the same time, Cambodia’s national carrier Air Cambodia has strengthened its fleet expansion strategy by signing agreements to purchase ten Boeing 737 MAX aircraft along with additional COMAC C909 aircraft. These investments are expected to support future route expansion and improve the country’s international aviation competitiveness.

Growing Airport Network Strengthens Cambodia’s Position

Cambodia’s airport development strategy extends well beyond Techo International Airport. The country now operates three international airports built to 4E standards, including Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, Sihanoukville International Airport, and Dara Sakor International Airport.

Together with the new 4F class Techo International Airport, Cambodia is developing one of the region’s most modern airport networks capable of serving both tourism and international commerce.

The government has also designed these airports to reflect Cambodia’s cultural identity while incorporating environmentally friendly technologies and modern architectural standards. Officials believe these features will enhance the country’s international image while supporting sustainable aviation growth.

Aviation Investment Expected to Drive Business and Tourism

Government officials expect the upgraded airport network to attract more airlines from the Middle East, Europe, North America, and other international markets. More direct flights will improve convenience for travellers while reducing travel times and increasing Cambodia’s accessibility.

For business leaders, investors, and exporters, stronger air connectivity could lower logistics costs, improve cargo efficiency, and make Cambodia an even more attractive destination for foreign direct investment.

Members of the Senate Commission welcomed the government’s long term aviation strategy, noting that continued investment in airport infrastructure will strengthen Cambodia’s economy, expand trade opportunities, boost tourism, and improve regional connectivity throughout ASEAN and beyond.

Passenger Traffic Faces Short Term Challenges

Despite the country’s ambitious aviation plans, official figures show that Cambodia’s international air passenger market experienced temporary challenges during the first half of 2026.

According to official data, international passenger traffic declined by seven percent compared with the same period last year, reaching 3.27 million passengers between January and June. Flight movements remained largely unchanged during the period, with Cambodia’s international airports handling 32,306 flights.

While the short term numbers indicate slower passenger growth, government officials remain confident that major investments in airport infrastructure and expanded international partnerships will support stronger long term growth.

What Does This Mean for Businesses, Investors, and Travel Companies?

Cambodia’s aviation strategy signals a major shift in the country’s economic future. Better international air connectivity will improve access for global investors, multinational companies, exporters, logistics providers, and tourism operators. Faster cargo movement and more direct international flights could strengthen Cambodia’s competitiveness as a manufacturing and investment destination.

For travel agencies, airlines, hotels, and tourism businesses, the expansion of Cambodia’s airport network offers significant opportunities to attract new international markets while supporting continued growth in business travel and leisure tourism.

Conclusion

Cambodia is making one of its biggest long term infrastructure investments by transforming Techo International Airport into a regional aviation hub. Combined with new international agreements, fleet expansion, and modern airport development, the country’s aviation sector is laying the foundation for stronger economic growth, increased foreign investment, and greater global connectivity. Although passenger numbers softened during the first half of 2026, the government’s long term vision demonstrates confidence that aviation will become a key driver of Cambodia’s future prosperity.

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