Public-Private Partnership Enhanced to Boost Cambodia’s Tourism Sector

Phnom penh: The Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA) has reaffirmed its dedication to collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism through strengthened public-private partnership mechanisms to foster the growth and resilience of the nation's tourism sector. This commitment aims to sustain Cambodia's competitiveness within the region. According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the pledge was made during a meeting chaired by H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, on January 16. The meeting was attended by Mrs. Chhay Sivlin, President of CATA, along with senior leaders from the Ministry of Tourism, members, and associate members of various tourism associations, bringing together a total of 110 participants. The primary goal was to identify key measures to maintain the sector's resilience and bolster Cambodia's tourism momentum to preserve its regional competitiveness. During the meeting, H.E. Minister expressed gratitude to CATA for its contributions in terms of finances, materials, and food supplies through the Tourism Family Fund, supporting displaced civilians and frontline armed forces. He also announced a pilot visa exemption for Chinese citizens holding passports of the People's Republic of China, including Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, starting from June 15 to October 15, 2026. This exemption applies regardless of whether travelers enter directly from China or another country, as long as they hold a PRC passport. CATA presented a report detailing its activities, requests, and challenges faced by its members, seeking intervention from the ministry and the government. H.E. Minister advised CATA to enhance its capacity and influence regionally and globally by improving its organizational structure and expanding its membership. He also urged the Association to prepare its 2026 annual action plan as a Practical Cooperation Action Plan, in alignment with the Green Season Action Plan for 2026. Furthermore, the Minister stressed the importance of tourism promotion, encouraging CATA to actively engage in promoting Ca mbodia's tourism potential in key target markets and enhancing the country's image and positive information. In the first 11 months of 2025, Cambodia welcomed 5.17 million foreign tourists, marking a 13 percent decrease compared to the same period the previous year, as per an official report.