Background
The Royal Government of Cambodia approved in principle a Visa Exemption Pilot Program for Chinese tourists for a four-month period from 15 June to 15 October 2026 as part of measures to support international arrivals and tourism promotion. Tourism statistics released by the Ministry indicate that Cambodia received approximately 5.6 million international tourists in 2025 and more than 1.3 million international tourists during the first four months of 2026.
The Ministry of Tourism convened the Cambodia Travel Match 2026 Mini-Series to promote Cambodia’s tourism sector through market connectivity and partnership building between international buyers and local sellers. The event, supported by PATA, the Cambodia Tourism Federation (CTF), and the Cambodia Tourism Board (CTB), brought together about 200 participants and accompanied the official launch of the “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” promotional campaign.
Key Developments
His Excellency Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, presided over the opening of Cambodia Travel Match 2026 Mini-Series, noting the event as the third edition of this marketplace-style forum. The minister thanked PATA, CTF, CTB, sponsoring partners and stakeholders for organizing the event and for their role in promoting Cambodia to buyers from China, Vietnam and Myanmar.
Policy Context
The Ministry described the four-month visa exemption decision for Chinese tourists as a historic opportunity for Cambodia’s tourism sector and for operators to expand promotional activities. The ministry also launched the “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” campaign running May–October with promotional packages aligned to six targeted visitor actions: Must See, Must Stay, Must Taste, Must Visit, Must Try, and Must Buy.
Market Impact
The ministry highlighted improved air and regional connectivity through Techo International Airport and Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport as factors strengthening Cambodia’s position as a regional tourism and business hub. The post identified priority investment and service areas linked to tourism growth, including hospitality, aviation, logistics, meetings and events, integrated resorts, eco-tourism and multi-destination tourism.
Official Source
Source: Ministry of Tourism Facebook post, 26 May 2026. Original post URL: https://www.facebook.com/cambodia.tourism.ministry/posts/pfbid027r6baKQg1r6obFaeb2ZuPvtFpSBvC27Gdhh3devrmi5J7AwWZoRP5jPZ3s8YCScpl
