The government’s efforts to enhance the attractiveness of the tourism sector, along with the construction of new infrastructure — especially Techo International Airport — are reportedly paying dividends, attracting more investment.
According to a Ministry of Tourism report summarising the performance of the tourism industry in 2025 and outlining work directions for 2026, Cambodia welcomed 47 tourism investment projects in 2025, with a total investment capital of $708 million and the potential to create 5,186 jobs. The projects are located in Phnom Penh, the northeastern provinces, Preah Sihanouk province and Svay Rieng.
The ministry noted that although 2025 brought several challenges, Cambodia’s tourism sector remained resilient and continued to grow. It said this stemmed from the strong commitment and attention of the government leadership, along with active participation from development partners, the private sector and local communities.
“Tourism development based on innovation, resilience, sustainability, inclusiveness and responsibility is a crucial factor in contributing to and promoting socio-economic development,” it said.
“It generates income, creates and expands job and employment opportunities, preserves and develops cultural and historical heritage as well as natural resources, enhances national prestige on the international stage, and transforms Cambodia — ‘The Kingdom of Wonder’ — into a world-class tourism destination that is joyful, safe, comfortable and a ‘land of blessings for tourism, investment, and living’,” it added.
Experts believe that investors’ decisions to commit to Cambodia’s tourism sector are driven by the country’s strong political stability, well-connected infrastructure and opportunities for profitable returns.
The government has identified tourism as a priority sector of the national economy. It was previously dubbed “green gold” by former Prime Minister Hun Sen.
The tourism ministry reported that in 2025 Cambodia welcomed a total of 5.57 million international guests, a decrease of 16.9% from 2024. Major source markets included Vietnam with 1.22 million visitors (down 8.8%), China with 1.2 million visitors (up 41.5%), Thailand with 1.02 million visitors (down 52.4%), the US with 206,791 visitors (down 3.6%) and South Korea with 152,598 visitors (down 20.6%).
The Ministry also reported that 2.86 million tourists arrived by air (up 19.2%), 2.62 million by land (down 37.8%) and 89,731 by water (up 6.3%).
