The conference, part of the “Community of Common Destiny” framework, drew officials and representatives from both countries to discuss ways to deepen tourism cooperation. China’s commitment to support Cambodian tourism underscores its recognition of Cambodia’s significance as a cultural and tourism hub in Southeast Asia. Key discussions at the conference focused on enhancing air connectivity, establishing tourism cooperation mechanisms, and launching cultural exchange initiatives.
Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia, Wang Wenbin, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Tourism is a strong driving force for economic development and an important bridge for enhancing people-to-people ties.” The ambassador emphasized China’s intention to strengthen tourism cooperation as a priority, given its role in driving economic growth and cultural connection. He highlighted the Chinese Embassy’s active involvement in initiatives that facilitate increased travel between the two nations, a crucial step as tourism rebounds after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Among the most notable developments is the establishment of the China-Cambodia Tourism Cooperation and Exchange Mechanism. This mechanism, launched in partnership with the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism and China Travel Group, aims to provide a structured framework for dialogue, collaboration, and resource sharing between tourism entities in both countries. The first meeting of this initiative was held in September, and a follow-up discussion took place on the sidelines of the Friendship Cities Conference, expanding the network of partners committed to supporting bilateral tourism.
In line with the cooperation mechanism, several Chinese airlines, including Spring Airlines and China Southern Airlines, have pledged to support tourism growth by offering more direct flights from China to Cambodia. New routes from Xi’an and Harbin to Cambodia are set to launch soon, further facilitating travel between the two countries. The expansion of direct flights is expected to drive tourism growth, particularly for destinations like Siem Reap, home to the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex and a popular attraction for Chinese visitors.
The two nations are also focusing on local tourism partnerships, with eight Chinese provinces and cities and 25 Cambodian provinces joining the Tourism Forum at the conference. Yunnan province, for example, has chosen Angkor as its anchor project for tourism with Cambodia, showcasing a commitment to long-term collaboration. Additionally, Henan province expressed interest in co-hosting the closing ceremony of the China-Cambodia People-to-People Exchange Year, further emphasizing the cultural ties between the two countries.
Minister of Tourism Huot Hak reaffirmed Cambodia’s readiness to welcome Chinese tourists, recognizing their vital role in the nation’s tourism landscape. “We are fully prepared to welcome the return of Chinese tourists and investors,” said Hak, referencing the country’s efforts to implement policies that support tourism recovery and attract international visitors. Cambodia’s tourism industry has seen significant growth, welcoming 5.45 million international tourists since 2023, with Chinese visitors comprising a substantial portion of these arrivals.
Data from the Ministry of Tourism reveals a promising upward trend in visitor numbers, with Cambodia receiving 4.8 million international tourists in the first nine months of 2024—a 22.2% increase from the previous year. Among these, 607,000 were Chinese tourists, reflecting a notable year-on-year growth of 49.8%. Ambassador Wang noted that 670,000 Chinese tourists visited Cambodia from January to September this year, underscoring the importance of Chinese tourism for Cambodia’s economic and cultural vitality.
Ambassador Wang expressed hope that Cambodia would adopt additional measures to attract more Chinese tourists, including enhancing visa accessibility and bolstering safety protocols. The ambassador emphasized the need for stringent law enforcement to tackle issues like online gambling and fraud, ensuring a secure environment for visitors.
At the regional level, Siem Reap Province is playing a pivotal role in strengthening Cambodia-China tourism ties. Siem Reap Provincial Governor Prak Sophoan highlighted the province’s long-standing relationships with 30 Chinese provinces and cities, partnerships that have spurred development in tourism, education, trade, and health. The opening of the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, developed in collaboration with Chinese partners, is set to enhance accessibility and encourage greater tourism flows to the region.
As part of the strategic tourism initiatives, Cambodia has launched the “Visit Siem Reap 2024” campaign, which celebrates the “Special Year of Cambodia-China People-to-People Exchange.” This campaign is set to bring a series of cultural events to Siem Reap, including performances of Shaolin kung fu alongside Cambodian martial art Bokator at Angkor, a Cambodia-China Food Fair, and the Cambodia-China Tourism Fair in December. These events aim to attract Chinese tourists by showcasing the cultural richness and hospitality of Cambodia, while simultaneously fostering a deeper cultural connection between the two nations.
Governor Sophoan expressed optimism about the tourism collaboration, stating, “We are prepared to welcome guests from around the world, particularly Chinese tourists.” He emphasized Cambodia’s efforts to promote direct flights to Siem Reap Angkor International Airport and strengthen business partnerships that enhance the tourism experience. By showcasing Cambodia’s peace, security, and hospitality, the province hopes to make a positive impression on international visitors, fostering a reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.
The conference also underscored the long-term vision for Sino-Cambodian tourism collaboration, as both nations work to establish frameworks that support sustainable tourism growth. The shared commitment to tourism development not only promises economic benefits but also fosters lasting people-to-people connections, enriching both cultures and building mutual respect and understanding.
In summary, Cambodia and China’s expanding tourism partnership is a testament to their shared vision for cultural and economic collaboration. Through increased direct flights, tourism forums, cultural exchanges, and strategic campaigns like “Visit Siem Reap 2024,” the two nations aim to make travel between Cambodia and China more accessible and enriching. This partnership marks a new chapter in Cambodia’s tourism journey, positioning it as a top destination for Chinese travelers and strengthening its role as a hub for international tourism in Southeast Asia.
Tags: 2024 International Friendship Cities Conference Siem Reap, Huot Hak, Cambodia, China, Wang Wenbin, China-Cambodia Tourism Cooperation, Governor Sophoan
