Cambodia Targets New Markets, Longer Stays to Boost Tourism

Cambodia is seeking to attract new tourist markets, encourage longer visitor stays, and boost spending by hosting 40 international travel buyers across four destinations under the Cambodia Travel Match (CTM) 2026 Mini‑Series, a travel association said Thursday. The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Cambodia Chapter will run the programme from Sept. 6–12, taking buyers from the Philippines, Nepal and Myanmar through Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot and Kep. The hosted buyers — including tourism executives, senior tour operator managers and sales professionals — will experience Cambodian products firsthand while meeting local operators. Organizers said the aim is to turn destination promotion into concrete commercial opportunities, with buyers incorporating Cambodian products into their own travel programmes and promoting them in home markets. A key focus is packaging Kampot and Kep as a single coastal destination. Kampot offers riverside, heritage, community, agrotourism, culinary and nature experiences, while Kep highlights seaside leisure, islands, beaches and seafood. PATA Cambodia Chapter President Dr. Thourn Sinan said CTM’s value should extend beyond meetings, with connections translated into cooperation, sales and new visitor flows. He cited the Kampot‑Kep combination as an example of complementary identities that can strengthen tourism products and increase stays. Through the four‑destination journey, CTM 2026 will promote Cambodia as a diverse destination beyond heritage, combining culture, cuisine, urban experiences, community tourism and coastal leisure.