Cambodia is gaining fresh support from Chinese tourism businesses and influencers as the Kingdom rolls out its new visa exemption policy for Chinese visitors. Major tourism firms in Hainan Province have now pledged to help bring up to 500,000 Chinese tourists to Cambodia by 2026, marking a major boost for the country’s tourism recovery plans.
The commitment was announced during a promotional visit to Hainan Province led by Tourism Minister Huot Hak. The Cambodian delegation, joined by senior private sector representatives, held discussions and promotional activities focused on Cambodia’s trial visa exemption policy for Chinese citizens and the “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” campaign.
Chinese tourism firms welcome visa exemption policy
The business meeting took place in Haikou and was led by Sun Haigui, Deputy Director of the Haikou Municipal Bureau of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, Publication and Sports. The event brought together leading tourism enterprises and well known influencers from across Hainan Province.
During the discussions, Sun Haigui praised the warm hospitality and cooperation shown by the Cambodian delegation. He also highlighted Cambodia’s growing tourism appeal, particularly in cultural tourism, historical destinations, natural attractions, and hospitality services. According to participants, these strengths give Cambodia strong potential to attract even more Chinese travelers in the coming years.
Tourism companies target 500,000 visitors by 2026
All 15 participating state owned and private tourism companies expressed strong support for Cambodia’s decision to grant visa free access for Chinese citizens for stays of up to 14 days. The companies believe the policy will encourage more Chinese tourists to visit Cambodia, especially during the country’s green season tourism campaign.
The firms also pledged to intensify promotional efforts and tourism campaigns aimed at increasing arrivals to 500,000 Chinese visitors by 2026. Representatives noted that since 2016, their companies have already helped bring more than 300,000 Chinese tourists to Cambodia, showing the strong travel connection between both sides.
Cambodia strengthens tourism ties with China
Minister Huot Hak welcomed the growing partnership between Cambodia and China, especially the cooperation between Hainan Province, Haikou City, and private sector tourism operators. He said the relationship continues to create new opportunities for tourism development and business cooperation.
The Minister also stressed that Cambodia’s upcoming visa exemption policy, which is set to take effect in June, will make travel more convenient for Chinese visitors. Combined with the “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” campaign, stronger safety measures for tourists, and two weekly charter flights between Cambodia and China, officials expect travel demand to rise significantly.
Green season campaign gains momentum
Cambodia’s green season campaign has become an important part of the country’s tourism promotion strategy. The campaign aims to showcase the beauty of Cambodia during the rainy season, when landscapes become greener, weather conditions are cooler, and tourist destinations are less crowded.
Officials believe this seasonal campaign, together with easier travel access and targeted promotions in China, can help Cambodia attract travelers looking for unique cultural and nature based experiences. Tourism leaders also see China as one of the Kingdom’s most important long term visitor markets.
Conclusion
The pledge from Hainan tourism firms and influencers reflects growing confidence in Cambodia’s tourism potential. With visa free travel, stronger cooperation with Chinese partners, and expanded promotional campaigns, Cambodia is positioning itself to welcome a new wave of Chinese visitors over the next two years. The target of 500,000 tourists by 2026 signals an ambitious but important step in rebuilding the Kingdom’s tourism industry and strengthening regional travel ties.