Cambodia: Arrivals of international tourists increase 13 pct

About 3 million international tourists visited the Kingdom during the first half of the year, a hike of 13 percent, according to the Ministry of Tourism.

In a report released yesterday, the ministry said it forecasts that the country will receive 6.2 million foreign tourists in 2018, which would amount to an increase of 12 percent.

By 2020, the ministry expects 7 million, and 15 million by 2030.

“With peace and safety for tourists, Cambodia is a renowned tourist destination that attracts millions of local and international tourists every year,” the report said.

Minister of Tourism Thong Khon said tourism now contributes 12 percent of GDP. He added that local tourism is also on the rise, with the number of Cambodians choosing to travel within the country up 6 percent.

“The government continues to develop the nation as a clean and environmentally friendly tourism destination, focusing on sustainability and responsibility,” he said.

Chhay Sivlin, the president of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA), said the success of the sector is largely based on the government’s ability to develop and maintain good relations with foreign governments.

“There is lot of potential, and to ensure that we make the most of it we must diversify and expand our tourist offer as well as increase the quality of services we offer tourists.”