Cambodia Eyes Indian Tourist Growth Through ASEAN–India Tourism Strategy and Air Links

CEBU, Philippines, Feb 1, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia signaled its intent to tap into rising Indian tourist flows as ASEAN tourism ministers reaffirmed India’s role as a high-potential market during the 13th Meeting of ASEAN–India Tourism Ministers.

The meeting, held Jan 30 on the sidelines of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, brought together ministers from ASEAN member states, the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN, the Indian Ambassador to ASEAN, and around 100 delegates. It was co-chaired by Philippine Tourism Secretary Esperanza Christina Garcia Frasco and Indian Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

Leading Cambodia’s delegation, Tourism Minister Huot Hak cited progress under the ASEAN–India Tourism Work Plan 2023–2027 and the ASEAN–India Tourism Year 2025. He also pointed to Cambodia’s own Cambodia–India Tourism Year in 2024–2025, underscoring India as a key source market.

Hak highlighted improved air connectivity as a driver of growth, noting direct flights between Phnom Penh and New Delhi and between Siem Reap and Kolkata. These links, he said, have eased travel and boosted arrivals from India.

Priority areas for deeper cooperation include joint promotion, enhanced air and maritime connectivity, cruise tourism, sustainable and inclusive tourism development, human capital building, and stronger people-to-people exchanges.

Positioning Cambodia as a safe and welcoming destination, Hak said the country is prepared to host more Indian visitors seeking heritage sites, spiritual journeys, wellness experiences, and diverse tourism products.