Cambodia Urges Chinese Investment to Boost Tourism Connectivity

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.16, 2025) — Tourism Minister Huot Hak on Tuesday called on Chinese private companies to help attract airlines and operate flights to Cambodia’s major tourist destinations, including Siem Reap and Preah Sihanouk provinces, in a bid to strengthen connectivity and facilitate travel between the two countries.

Hak made the appeal while chairing the second Tripartite Mechanism Meeting, held online, between Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism, the Chinese Embassy in Phnom Penh, and leading Chinese travel companies. The meeting was also attended by Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin, representatives from relevant institutions, and members of Cambodia’s private sector.

“Cambodia welcomes Chinese private sector investment, particularly in tourism and other key industries,” Hak said. “The Royal Government of Cambodia has created a favorable environment for foreign investors.”

The minister proposed implementing previously signed memorandums of understanding, including initiatives such as familiarization trips and film tourism collaborations between Cambodia and China.

Participants agreed to focus on key priorities discussed during the meeting, including organizing large-scale tourism events, improving travel facilitation, and expanding air connectivity. The goal is to attract more tourists from Cambodia, China, and other international markets.

Siem Reap, known for its archaeological treasures including the Angkor Wat temple complex, and Sihanoukville, famed for its coastal resorts and rapid modernization, remain Cambodia’s top draws for Chinese and international tourists and investors.