Cambodia Intensifies China Tourism Push with Visa-Free Policy and Cultural Exchange

PHNOM PENH, Sept 25, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is intensifying efforts to attract more Chinese tourists through cultural exchanges, private-sector cooperation, and a temporary visa-free policy, officials said Thursday. The latest initiative was showcased at the Cambodia–China Cultural and Tourism Promotion Night in Phnom Penh, themed “Clouds Accompany the Moon, Deep Friendship Between Good Neighbors.” The event, held to mark the Mid-Autumn Festival, gathered more than 600 participants including government officials, tourism businesses, Chinese delegations, influencers and artists. Tourism Minister Huot Hak said the programme would strengthen people-to-people exchanges and promote two-way tourism. He highlighted Cambodia and China’s longstanding cultural ties, noting that tourism cooperation could serve as a bridge between the two nations. A key element of the campaign is a temporary visa exemption, allowing eligible Chinese passport holders to enter Cambodia without a visa between June 15 and October 15, 2026, for stays of up to 14 days. The measure is designed to boost arrivals during Cambodia’s “Green Season.” Chinese visitors remain a major source market, with 452,263 arrivals in the first half of 2026, accounting for about a quarter of all international visitors. Hak reaffirmed Cambodia’s invitation to Chinese tourists and investors, presenting the Kingdom as a safe and welcoming destination under the “Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder, Feel the Warmth” campaign. The promotion night featured joint cultural performances, including traditional Khmer dances, youth street dance and collaborative artistic presentations. Officials said the event supports the Cambodia–China Tourism Year and broader bilateral cooperation by linking cultural promotion with tourism development. Cambodia has also expanded outreach in China through trade fairs and promotional activities, aiming to strengthen business ties with travel agencies and operators. The Ministry of Tourism reported nearly two million international arrivals between January and July, with Chinese and Vietnamese visitors leading despite year-on-year declines.