Siem Reap Tourism Discounts Launched, But Industry Warns of Need for Long-Term Strategy

PHNOM PENH, Aug 3, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has rolled out discounts of up to 50 percent on tourism services in Siem Reap, but industry player says the initiative alone will not reverse a sharp slump in international arrivals without broader reforms and a long‑term strategy. The Ministry of Tourism on Friday launched the pilot “2026 Siem Reap Tourism Service Mega Sale” under its Green Season campaign, offering discounts of 10 to 50 percent at participating hotels, restaurants and service providers. The promotion aims to boost travel during the low season and encourage longer stays after a difficult first half of the year. Thourn Sinan, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia Chapter, welcomed the effort but said discounts could not recover the nearly 50 percent drop in foreign arrivals. “The discount campaign is a positive signal, but the question is whether it can recover the almost 50 percent of tourists we have lost. I don’t think that is possible,” he said. Sinan noted that regional competitors combine promotions with stronger aviation strategies, citing Vietnam’s recent airfare discounts. He questioned the role of Cambodia’s national carrier in supporting tourism, saying most package tours sold in Cambodia are extensions from neighboring countries. He added that the campaign would mainly benefit domestic tourists and independent travelers booking directly or online, rather than international package tours. Despite its limitations, Sinan described the promotion as a positive step and urged a comprehensive strategy extending beyond Siem Reap. Official data show foreign arrivals fell 47.9 percent to 1.8 million in the first half of 2026, with tourism revenue down 31.5 percent to $1.4 billion.