Culinary diplomacy takes center stage as Cambodia seeks to boost tourism and global profile

PHNOM PENH, July 1, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia is positioning its culinary heritage as a strategic soft power asset, with the Ministry of Tourism unveiling a new gastro‑diplomacy strategy aimed at attracting visitors and strengthening the country’s global image, officials said Wednesday.

The initiative was highlighted at a seminar on “Tourism Diplomacy and Gastronomy Tourism Linked with Gastro‑Diplomacy,” co‑chaired by Tourism Minister Huot Hak and Lu Meng, Co‑Chair of the Tourism Working Group. Around 250 participants attended, including government officials, business leaders, chefs, diplomats and tourism operators.

Hak told the gathering that global tourism has entered a new era in which destinations must compete not only with attractions but also by offering authentic and diverse experiences. “Today’s travelers are looking for more than sightseeing. They want to experience local cuisine, explore culture and history, and immerse themselves in daily life,” he said.

The minister noted that culinary tourism, integrated with diplomacy, has become a powerful tool for countries seeking to enhance their international image, attract investment and promote inclusive growth.

He called for collaboration to diversify Cambodia’s tourism products through culinary routes and agri‑tourism experiences linked to local cuisine, encouraging visitors to stay longer and spend more.

Hak stressed the importance of preserving traditional flavors while raising hygiene and food safety standards to strengthen competitiveness. He said the strategy would also prepare Cambodia for major events, including the Francophonie Summit in November 2026, offering a platform to showcase Khmer cuisine and cultural identity to world leaders.