Ministry of Tourism has prepared specific action plans to increase the number of tourists to 7 million by 2025
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Tourism said that Cambodia welcomed 6.7 million international tourists in 2024, a 23 percent increase compared to 2023.
Ms. Hun Dani, Secretary of State and spokesperson for the Ministry of Tourism, told the Khmer Times yesterday that the ministry has been putting in place a number of action plans to attract more international visitors.
She said that Cambodia attracted 6.7 million foreign tourists in 2024, with the most popular tourists coming from Thailand, Vietnam, China, Laos and the United States, as well as other countries in Europe.
Ms. Dani attributed the record to the strong efforts of Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has put in place a number of policies to promote tourism and attract more tourists.
Ms. Dani said, “Another important factor is peace and security, which are necessary conditions for attracting more tourists. Without a safe and stable environment, no foreigner will dare to visit Cambodia. This commitment to safety plays a key role in attracting more international travelers to Cambodia.”
“Peace and security are key factors that ensure that foreign tourists from around the world feel welcome, safe and comfortable when choosing Cambodia as their travel destination.”
She added that improving the quality of tourism products, along with hospitality and services, has helped increase the number of foreign tourists visiting Cambodia.
The Cambodian people are a nation full of smiles, joy, especially the warmth provided by the staff, who play an important role throughout the tourism sector.
Ms. Dani emphasized that Mr. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, has been fulfilling his duties in a spirit of cooperation, working closely with ministries, relevant institutions, the private sector and especially with embassies in Cambodia. His efforts have helped attract more foreign investors and tourists to visit Cambodia.”
Regarding the plan to attract international tourists by 2025, Ms. Dani stated that Cambodia aims to welcome approximately 7 million international tourists this year. She said that to achieve this growth, the Ministry of Tourism has prepared a clear plan with specific actions. First: The Ministry will streamline and improve the procedures for issuing e-visas to foreign tourists following the recent government decision, as well as reduce the price of e-visas, including the price of tourist visas (e-Visa T) from $36 to $30 and for regular visas (e-Visa E) from $42 to $35.
Second: The Ministry will promote the development of connectivity from Cambodia’s tourist areas to major tourist destinations, especially direct flights, to attract more tourists to Cambodia.
Third: The Ministry of Tourism will promote and develop new tourism products in all tourist destinations across the country to strengthen and diversify the tourism sector.
“The Royal Government will promote Cambodia’s tourism sector both domestically and internationally, positioning the country as a destination that provides warmth and safety,” she said.
Ms. Dani added that finally, these efforts will continue for the development of human resources and human capital in the tourism sector, ensuring that all workers have the necessary knowledge and skills to meet market needs, remain competitive in the global tourism market, and contribute to broader socio-economic development, especially in the tourism industry.
To attract more tourists to key destinations, the Ministry is continuing to develop strategic plans to promote and promote key tourist areas such as Siem Reap, Angkor, coastal areas, and eco-tourism and nature tourism areas in the eastern region. These efforts aim to showcase Cambodia’s diverse tourism offerings, including its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Ms. Dani emphasized that “the Minister of Tourism has been working to transform Cambodia’s tourism sector from a low season to a green season to attract tourists all year round, ensuring that tourists enjoy Cambodia’s offerings in all seasons.”
