Cambodia: Return of Chinese travellers, 48.2% growth in 2025

After years marked by the health crisis and a global slowdown in international travel, Cambodia is now regaining one of its most dynamic historical tourist markets: China.

According to figures recently published by the Ministry of Tourism, the number of Chinese visitors jumped by 48.2% in the first seven months of the year compared to the same period last year.

This spectacular growth confirms the central role of Chinese tourists in the Kingdom's economic recovery. China was once the leading source of foreign visitors to Cambodia, particularly to flagship destinations such as Siem Reap, home to the temples of Angkor, Sihanoukville on the coast, and Phnom Penh, the capital.

A strong signal for the tourism sector

The resumption of international travel from China comes at a time when the global economy remains fragile. However, the strengthening of direct air links between major Chinese cities and Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is a key driver. New airlines, alongside long-established operators, are increasing their frequencies in response to growing demand for cultural and beach experiences in Cambodia.

The Cambodian authorities believe that this momentum is helping to reposition the country as a must-see destination in Southeast Asia. The government has also stepped up its promotional campaigns through international trade fairs, partnerships with Chinese travel agencies and a particular focus on linguistic hospitality and quality of service.

A strategic economic windfall

The massive return of Chinese travellers is not limited to arrival figures. Their purchasing power supports a large part of the tourism economy: hotels, restaurants, transport, retail and cultural tours. In some provinces, a slight recovery is already translating into increased local economic activity, giving a lifeline to thousands of small businesses.

Challenges and prospects

However, while the rebound is encouraging, challenges remain. Regional competition remains fierce, with Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore stepping up their efforts to attract this strategic clientele. Cambodia is therefore banking on its unique heritage and distinctive cultural offering to set itself apart. Diversifying its tourism infrastructure – high-end hotels, ecotourism, cruises on the Mekong River – appears to be a major challenge in consolidating visitor loyalty.

In the longer term, the Ministry of Tourism aims to attract several million Chinese visitors annually, returning to pre-crisis levels. Continued improvements in air connectivity, the modernisation of border services and continued investment in infrastructure should support this trajectory.

A new era of bilateral relations

Beyond tourism, this recovery also illustrates the strengthening of economic and diplomatic ties between Phnom Penh and Beijing. Tourism appears here as a vehicle for rapprochement and shared development, confirming China's strategic place in Cambodia's vision for sustainable growth.

In short, this 48.2% increase in Chinese tourism in just seven months heralds a turning point: not only is Cambodia regaining its appeal, but it is also reasserting itself as a key destination for one of the world's largest travel markets.