Tourism industry insiders have welcomed the government’s approval of a trial visa exemption scheme for Chinese citizens.
According to a December 2 announcement from the Office of the Council of Ministers, visa-free entry will be offered to Chinese nationals travelling from China. They will be eligible for a 14-day stay during the four-month period from June 15 to October 15, 2026. No application or fee will be required, although an E-arrival card must be completed.
“During the implementation period, Chinese visitors may enter Cambodia multiple times,” explained the statement.
It noted that the government authorised the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to negotiate with the Chinese government to simplify visa procedures for Cambodian tourists travelling to China, with the goal of achieving a reciprocal visa-free arrangement in the future.
The private sector was asked to cooperate by promoting the initiative to the Chinese market.
Anheng Sokpheak, president of the Cambodia Chinese Tour Guide Association (CCTGA), welcomed the upcoming scheme. He believed the measure would attract more Chinese tourists to visit Cambodia.
“I think this is great news because it increases the appeal and convenience for Chinese tourists traveling to Cambodia. I am optimistic that Chinese tourist arrivals will increase after this visa-free exemption takes effect,” he told The Post on December 3.
Thourn Sinan, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Cambodia Chapter, noted that tourism stakeholders have been keenly awaiting the announcement. He said the decision followed extensive advocacy from the industry and that Ministry of Tourism leaders have always listened to requests from the private sector.
He added that this is an excellent trial measure, and many positive outcomes are expected.
“I hope the government will consider making it permanent. I believe that through this exemption, we will achieve satisfying results, but we must also implement it with caution,” he noted.
Sinan urged authorities and all relevant parties to pay close attention to issues related to gambling and online scams in Cambodia.
“I continue to request that we address the root causes of online scams and not just arrest small groups. When we only target small groups and allow the masterminds to escape, the problem simply moves from one place to another. Right now, the most serious and feared areas are Bokor and the Star Vegas zones. If the government does not take this seriously, the fear will only grow,” he warned.
According to Sinan, China is a large potential market for Cambodia, and the visa exemption will be the largest trial measure the Kingdom has ever undertaken. He believed it would have a positive impact, but Cambodia must intensify its promotion to make the country a joyful and safe tourism destination.
