Cambodia has announced a pilot visa exemption for Chinese visitors this summer to stimulate tourism and strengthen regional competitiveness. Tourism Minister Huot Hak told a meeting with the Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA) that the pilot would run from June 15 to October 15. Holders of passports of the People’s Republic of China—including those from mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau—would be able to enter Cambodia without a visa during the trial, regardless of where their journey began.
The announcement comes as the tourism sector faces pressure. Figures show that Cambodia received 5.17 million foreign tourist visits in the first eleven months of 2025, down 13 percent year on year, with momentum in the industry’s recovery slowing. The government hopes that lowering entry barriers will help attract visitors again from China, an important source market.
CATA President Chhay Sivlin said the association would continue promoting public-private cooperation to strengthen the industry’s resilience. At the meeting of 110 participants, CATA presented a report on current industry challenges and called for government support. Huot Hak urged the association to expand its international influence and align its 2026 planning with the government’s Green Season Action Plan, with the aim of improving Cambodia’s overall image in overseas markets.
Compiled by this station.
