Cambodia Aims for 7.5 Million Foreign Tourists by 2025
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Synopsis
Cambodia is forecasting an influx of up to 7.5 million international tourists by 2025, driven by a significant rise in visitor numbers and increased tourism revenue. The country continues to bolster its economy through tourism alongside other key sectors.
Key Takeaways
- Cambodia expects 7.5 million tourists in 2025.
- The tourism sector generated $3.63 billion in revenue in 2024.
- Tourism contributed 9.4 percent to GDP in 2024.
- Top markets included Thailand and Vietnam.
- Four UNESCO heritage sites attract visitors.
Phnom Penh, Feb 26 (NationPress) Cambodia is anticipated to welcome as many as 7.5 million international tourists by 2025, according to Tourism Minister Huot Hak on Wednesday.
The Southeast Asian country recorded 6.7 million foreign visitors in 2024, marking a 23 percent increase from the previous year. This growth contributed to a gross revenue of $3.63 billion generated by the tourism sector last year, an 18 percent rise.
"For 2025, we are optimistic that the number of international tourists to Cambodia will rise to between 7.2 million and 7.5 million," he stated during the Ministry of Tourism's annual conference opening ceremony.
Tourism is one of the four main pillars of Cambodia's economy, alongside garment exports, agriculture, and real estate and construction.
In 2024, the tourism sector contributed approximately 9.4 percent to the nation's gross domestic product (GDP), an increase from 7.5 percent the previous year, according to a report from the Ministry of Tourism. The sector has also generated 510,000 direct jobs.
Last year, the top five source markets for arrivals included Thailand, Vietnam, China, Laos, and the United States.
Cambodia is home to four UNESCO-listed world heritage sites: the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap province, the Temple Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk in Kampong Thom province, the Temple of Preah Vihear, and the Koh Ker archaeological site in Preah Vihear province.
Additionally, the country boasts a stunning coastline that stretches around 450 km across four southwestern provinces: Sihanoukville, Kampot, Kep, and Koh Kong.
Known as the 'Kingdom of Wonder', Cambodia is renowned for its rich history, breathtaking temples, and friendly hospitality. With its ancient archaeological treasures, lively cities, and picturesque landscapes, Cambodia presents a truly distinctive and enriching travel experience.
