AKP Phnom Penh, September 27, 2025 --

Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, has highlighted the vital role of tourism in driving Cambodia’s socio-economic growth and advancing the Kingdom’s long-term development vision.

In his congratulatory message on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2025 (Sept. 27), celebrated under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” Samdech Thipadei underscored that Cambodia’s tourism sector is founded on peace and stability and serves as a key driver for achieving the country’s goal of becoming a high-income economy by 2050.

In 2024, Cambodia welcomed 6.7 million international visitors, marking a 22.9 percent increase from the previous year, along with 22.52 million domestic tourists, up 20.1 percent. Tourism generated over US$3.6 billion in revenue, contributing around 9.4 percent to the national GDP. In the first eight months of 2025, Cambodia recorded more than 4 million international arrivals, while domestic tourism surged by 53 percent to 17.2 million, compared to the same period last year.

These figures reflect the resilience and robust recovery of the sector, the Premier said, affirming that tourism has become a backbone of the national economy and a source of sustainable livelihoods for Cambodians.

To ensure long-term benefits, Samdech Thipadei called for promotion of green investment in tourism through 4Ps (Public-Private-People Partnerships) aligned with the principle of “Conservation for Development, Development for Conservation”; continued digitalisation of the tourism sector and support for tourism MSMEs; and strengthening of human capital to keep pace with industry developments and ensure sustainability.

The Prime Minister also expressed his appreciation to all stakeholders, both domestic and international, for their continued support and cooperation in advancing Cambodia’s tourism industry and contributing to making the Kingdom a safe, attractive, and welcoming destination.

By C. Nika