Cambodia’s evolving tourism sector took the spotlight at the Cambodia-China Food Fair, held at Royal Palace Park in Siem Reap on October 26.
The high-profile event, celebrating the ‘Year of Transformation of Cambodia-China People-to-People Relations 2024,’ underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to expanding its cultural tourism offerings.
Tourism Minister Huot Hak emphasized the fair’s importance in fostering Cambodia-China relations, bringing around 200 attendees from across sectors and showcasing the depth of Cambodian and Chinese culinary heritage.
Beyond simply highlighting cuisines, the event served as a diplomatic and cultural bridge, reflecting Cambodia’s strategy to attract more tourists through meaningful cultural experiences.
Hak spoke on the value of hospitality and comfortable accommodations, signalling Cambodia’s focus on creating a welcoming, immersive environment for tourists. This sentiment aligns with Cambodia’s broader tourism strategy to appeal to travellers seeking enriching, cross-cultural experiences.
Cambodia’s tourism industry, previously contributing nearly a third of the country’s GDP, was heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly reduced arrivals from key markets like China.
To rebuild, the Ministry of Tourism, supported by Prime Minister Hun Manet’s administration, is now emphasizing cultural tourism and regional collaborations. Festivals and art event initiatives are now key features of Cambodia’s tourism calendar, intended to attract visitors beyond the temples of Angkor Wat.
By promoting local products and cultural events, Cambodia is not only diversifying its tourism sector but also revitalizing local economies. Such efforts allow local artisans and small businesses to thrive, enhancing the sustainability of tourism’s economic benefits.
During his visit to Siem Reap, Hak met with officials to discuss broader strategies for promoting northern Cambodia, including cooperative tourism packages with neighbouring provinces.
This initiative aims to promote tourism not only within Siam Reap but also in the entire north and northwestern region, which is poised to become a centre for tourism. Promoting these new destinations will support Cambodia’s regional economic growth and give tourists a deeper, more diverse experience of the country.
The Cambodia-China Food Fair further underscores Cambodia’s growing economic ties with China, its largest trading partner and top source of tourists before the pandemic. Strengthening these ties has been a key focus for Cambodian officials, who hope to restore and expand tourism numbers.
In 2019, over two million Chinese tourists visited Cambodia, though the pandemic drastically reduced these figures. The recent fair is considered a strong starting point for reviving these visitor numbers.
With initiatives like the Cambodia-China Food Fair, Cambodia is redefining its tourism landscape, moving beyond a reliance on its ancient temples.
By building on cultural partnerships and enhancing regional collaboration, Cambodia is positioning itself for a tourism revival that celebrates its rich heritage while embracing its role on the international stage.
As global travellers return, Cambodia stands ready to offer more than just historical landmarks — an invitation to experience the heart of Cambodian culture in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
- Tags: Cambodia China Food Fair
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