Can Cambodia’s Tourism Sector Outstrip Pre-Pandemic Levels with a 22.5% Surge in Foreign Tourist Arrivals?

In the first quarter of 2024, Cambodia experienced a remarkable upswing in international tourism, welcoming 1.58 million visitors, marking a 22.5% increase from the same period in 2023, as reported by the Ministry of Tourism.

Thailand retained its status as the primary source of tourism for Cambodia, despite a slight 1.1% decrease, with 449,781 visits recorded from the neighboring country. Additionally, there was a notable rise in visitors from Vietnam and China, with 299,391 and 189,961 arrivals respectively, representing increases of 18.9% and 12% compared to the previous year.

The influx of tourists predominantly occurred through airports, constituting approximately 40% of arrivals, showcasing a significant 33% year-on-year increase. The remaining visitors entered via border gates and waterways.

According to Top Sopheak, Secretary of State and Spokesman of the Ministry of Tourism, this surge in foreign tourist arrivals signals a robust recovery for Cambodia’s tourism sector, aiming to reach pre-pandemic levels in the foreseeable future. Sopheak expressed optimism, stating, “We hope that Cambodia will receive more international tourists and surpass the pre-Covid-19 pandemic level in the next couple of years.”

Peace, stability, and enhanced connectivity were highlighted as pivotal factors driving the increased influx of foreign tourists.

Tourism stands as one of Cambodia’s core economic pillars, with the nation boasting four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the renowned Angkor Archaeological Park and other historical marvels. Additionally, Cambodia flaunts a pristine coastline spanning approximately 450 km across four southwest provinces, further enhancing its allure to travelers.

To bolster tourism recovery, the Cambodian Government launched the ‘Visit Siem Reap 2024’ Campaign in April, targeting the revitalization of Siem Reap province, a popular tourist destination grappling with the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Hun Manet has rallied tourism officials, local authorities, and tour agents to collaborate in revitalizing tourism activities in Siem Reap.

In parallel, Cambodia’s outbound tourism also witnessed a modest uptick of 1.7%, totaling 415,909 trips during the January-March period of this year.

Last year, Cambodia welcomed a total of 5.45 million foreign visitors, generating $3.08 billion in revenue, according to the Ministry of Tourism’s statistics.