As China and Cambodia strengthen their tourism alliances, the two nations are positioning themselves to challenge Thailand’s long-standing dominance in Southeast Asia’s travel market. With bold strategies and innovative initiatives, Cambodia is rapidly increasing its appeal to global visitors. The nation is leveraging its affordable travel options, robust infrastructure developments, and newly forged partnerships, particularly with China, to attract a growing number of international tourists. This collaborative effort between China and Cambodia is set to make them formidable contenders, aiming to outpace Thailand in the competitive tourism race.
Cambodia is ramping up its efforts to increase international tourism, showing a strong commitment to welcoming more visitors from around the world. In recent years, Thailand has seen a significant decline in its share of the Chinese tourism market, and Cambodia is capitalizing on this shift by forming new partnerships with several Chinese provinces. To further strengthen ties, 2025 has been designated as the official China-Cambodia Tourism Year, with a landmark event marked by the arrival of a sizable group of tourists from Wuxi, a city in China. located near Shanghai. The group of 1,000 visitors landed in Phnom Penh only last week, demonstrating the growing interest in the Cambodian tourism market from China.
A major milestone in Cambodia’s tourism infrastructure is the upcoming launch of the Techno International Airport, scheduled to open in September 2025. Located just 20 kilometers south of Phnom Penh, the new airport represents a monumental investment of \\$1.5 billion. According to VINCI, the French multi-sector company that manages Cambodia’s three existing airports, the new facility will become the ninth largest airport in the world. Designed to accommodate the largest aircraft, including the Airbus A380-800 and Boeing 747-800, this airport will provide a vital gateway for international travelers. With the expansion of this world-class facility, Cambodia plans to introduce direct flights from Europe and other regions beginning in 2026, further boosting its appeal as a travel destination.
Unlike Thailand, which offers visa-exempt entry for up to 60 days for many nationalities, Cambodia has opted for a different approach. The regular Cambodian e-visa, priced at \\$39, allows for a 30-day stay, and this is the standard visa available to most tourists. However, nationals from ASEAN countries are exempt from this fee, in line with regional agreements. Despite the visa requirements, Chinese tour operators have expressed little concern, citing that Cambodia remains an affordable destination compared to Thailand. The cost of flights, hotels, and the overall cost of living in Cambodia are relatively lower, which adds to the country’s appeal. Furthermore, Cambodia has managed to avoid the negative publicity that has plagued Thailand in recent years, including concerns over abductions, scams, and other tourism-related issues.
Cambodia also offers a straightforward process for visitors looking to stay longer. Most long-term visitors find it easy to update or extend their visas through local agents, which helps them avoid dealing directly with immigration authorities. The Cambodian system does not require foreigners to report every 90 days, as is the case in some other countries. Instead, visitors who stay longer than a month must register their address online with the national database. Once registered, the address remains valid unless the individual chooses to update it. For those looking to retire in Cambodia, there is a multi-entry annual visa available for approximately \\$300, offering flexibility for long-term stays.
The Cambodian tourism sector is seeing a steady rise in international arrivals. During the first four months of 2025, Cambodia attracted 2.4 million visitors, reflecting a 14% rise compared to the same timeframe in 2024. Among these visitors, Chinese arrivals have surged by an impressive 49%. European tourists have also contributed significantly to the increase, with the largest groups coming from the UK and France. Cambodia’s rising appeal highlights the country’s expanding tourism options, designed to attract a diverse array of global travelers.
As part of its efforts to boost tourism throughout the year, Cambodia has also rebranded its rainy season. Traditionally seen as a less favorable time to visit, the rainy season, which spans from April to October, will now be marketed as the “Green Season.” Tourism Minister Huot Hak has emphasized the unique beauty and tranquility of Cambodia during this period, highlighting its lush landscapes and cooler climate. This rebranding effort seeks to change perceptions and promote Cambodia as a year-round destination, encouraging tourists to explore the country during the rainy season and enjoy its serene atmosphere.
With infrastructure investments, visa policies tailored to attract tourists, and an emphasis on affordability and convenience, Cambodia is positioning itself as an attractive destination for travelers. The combination of its rich cultural heritage, growing international flight connections, and enhanced tourist services makes it a promising location for both short-term visitors and long-term travelers. As Cambodia continues to develop its tourism sector and make strides in attracting more international visitors, it is set to become an increasingly important player in Southeast Asia’s tourism industry.
China and Cambodia are joining forces to reshape Southeast Asia’s tourism landscape, with ambitious strategies aimed at overtaking Thailand as the region’s leading destination for international visitors. Through bold initiatives and strategic partnerships, Cambodia is rapidly increasing its appeal to global travelers.
In conclusion, Cambodia’s efforts to enhance its tourism sector are already yielding positive results. From strengthening ties with China to opening a new international airport and offering visa flexibility, Cambodia is well on its way to becoming a top choice for global travelers. The country’s unique offerings, coupled with its efforts to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for tourists, make it an increasingly popular destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and affordability.
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