Cambodia’s tourism sector experiences a massive growth in 2023, with international visitors increasing by 409%. Learn about the nation’s economic boost, its captivating World Heritage Sites, and the bright future ahead as more tourists choose Cambodia as their destination.
The first half of 2023 has been an excellent period for Cambodian tourism as the Southeast Asian nation witnessed a remarkable 409 percent increase in international visitors compared to the same period in the previous year, according to Tourism Minister Thong Khon.
A total of 2.57 million tourists from around the world arrived in Cambodia during the first six months of 2023, up from 506,762 over the same period in 2022. Thailand led the charge with the highest number of visitors, followed by Vietnam, China, Laos, and the United States.
Soaring Figures Paint a Bright Future
Minister Khon further revealed, “The number of foreign tourists visiting Cambodia by air increased by 279 percent to 910,000; those arriving by land saw a whopping 526 percent increase to 1.63 million; and visitors coming through waterways rose by 586 percent to 30,000.”
Cambodia welcomed a total of 10,635 international flights during this encouraging period. According to recent forecasts, the Southeast Asian country is expected to receive up to 5 million international tourists by the end of 2023, marking a 120 percent increase from 2022’s figure of 2.27 million.
Furthermore, it is predicted that Cambodia’s tourism sector will attract 7 million foreign visitors by 2025, surpassing the pre-COVID-19 pandemic level of 6.6 million in 2019.
A Booming Tourism Industry Boosts Economic Growth
This rapid recovery in tourism has played a significant role in fostering Cambodia’s post-pandemic economic growth, which is projected to reach 5.6 percent in 2023. The tourism industry is one of the four pillars underpinning the country’s economy, along with garment export, agriculture, and construction and real estate.
China’s reopening earlier this year has been a driving force in Cambodia’s tourism growth, injecting a fresh impetus that is expected to attract between 800,000 and 1 million Chinese tourists in 2023 alone.
Cambodia’s Rich Cultural Heritage Beckons
The Southeast Asian nation is renowned for its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap province, the Preah Vihear Temple in Preah Vihear province, and the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site in Kampong Thom province. These awe-inspiring destinations, with their rich history and cultural significance, continue to entice tourists from around the globe.
As Cambodia’s tourism industry thrives, the nation is well on its way to a bright future, fueled by both the enchanting allure of its cultural heritage and the warmth of its welcoming people.
Source: Khmer Times
