MoT has developed specific plan of action to increase the number to 7 million in 2025
Cambodia welcomed 6.7 million international tourists in 2024, marking 23 percent increase compared to 2023, said a spokeswoman for the Ministry of Tourism (MoT).
Hun Dany, Secretary of State and Spokeswoman for the MoT, told Khmer Times yesterday that the ministry has and will introduce several action plans to attract more international visitors.
She said that Cambodia attracted 6.7 million foreign visitors in 2024 with the most popular tourists are from Thailand, Vietnam, China, Laos, and the United States, as well as other countries in Europe.
Dany attributed the record numbers to the significant efforts of Prime Minister Hun Manet, who has introduced several policies to promote the tourism sector and attract more visitors.
“Another crucial factor is peace and security, which are essential prerequisites for attracting more tourists. Without a secure and stable environment, no foreigner would be willing to visit Cambodia. This commitment to safety plays a vital role in the country’s growing appeal to international travellers,” said Dany.
“Peace and security are key factors that ensure foreign tourists from all over the world feel welcome, safe, and comfortable while choosing Cambodia as their travel destination.”
Dany went on to say that improving the quality of tourism products, along with hospitality and services have helped in increasing the number of foreign tourists visiting Cambodia.
Cambodian people are a nation full of smiles, cheerfulness, especially the warmth provided by employees across the tourism sector have played a pivotal role.
“Minister of Tourism Huot Hak has been carrying out his duties with a spirit of collaboration, working closely with other ministries, relevant institutions, the private sectors, and particularly with embassies in Cambodia. His efforts have helped in attracting more foreign investors and tourists to visit the country,” Dany emphasised.
Regarding plans to attract international tourists in 2025, Dany stated that Cambodia aims to welcome approximately 7 million international tourists this year. She said that to achieve this growth, the MoT has developed a clear plan with specific actions. First, it will streamline and improve the procedures for granting electronic visas to foreign tourists, following a recent decision by the government, as well as discounts on electronic visas including the visa fee for tourist type (e-Visa T) to $30 from $36, and the fee for regular type (e-Visa E) to $35 from $42.
Second, the ministry will promote the development of connectivity from Cambodia’s tourist destinations to major tourist destinations, especially direct flights to attract more tourists to Cambodia.
Third, the MoT will promote and develop new tourism products in all tourist destinations across the country to enrich and diversify the tourism sector.
“The Royal Government will promote Cambodian tourism both domestically and internationally, positioning the country as a destination that offers warmth and safety,” she said.
Finally, efforts will continue for the development of human resources and human capital within the tourism sector, ensuring that all workers have the knowledge and skills needed to meet market demands, remain competitive in the global tourism market, and contribute to broader socio-economic development, especially in the tourism industry, Dany said.
To attract more tourists to major destinations, the ministry is continuously developing strategic plans to promote and enhance key tourist spots such as Siem Reap, Angkor, coastal areas, and eco-tourism and nature-based destinations in the eastern area. These efforts aim to highlight Cambodia’s diverse tourism offerings, including its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
“Tourism Minister has been working to transform Cambodia’s tourism sector from a low season to a green season to attract tourists year-round, ensuring that visitors enjoy Cambodia’s offerings in all seasons,” Dany stressed.
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