Cambodia records 18.69 million domestic tourist trips

PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – the Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia , announced a massive surge in domestic travel, recording 18.69 million domestic tourist trips in the first nine months of the year (January to September), highlighting a 53% surge in internal travel, underscoring the Kingdom's commitment to economic resilience and sustainable development within the tourism sector. This figure represents a remarkable year-on-year increase from 12.15 million trips recorded during the same period last year.

This significant growth in domestic tourism is driving revenue and employment across local communities and is expected to fundamentally change how Cambodian residents interact with domestic travel and leisure. The surge in domestic trips was concentrated across key destinations; including, Phnom Penh: 7.46 million domestic trips, coastal Zones (Preah Sihanouk, Kep, Kampot, Koh Kong): 6.63 million domestic trips and Siem Reap Angkor: 2.66 million domestic trips.

"With more creative tourism products and tourism sites established, coupled with better road connections, more and more Cambodians prefer spending holidays at attractive tourism sites and provinces, especially during the long holiday period," said Chhay Sivlin, President of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA). "The surge of domestic tourists also offered opportunities for local businesses, contributing to economic development in the communities."

The strategic growth decision aligns with national policy goals. Prime Minister Hun Manet has called on relevant ministries, institutions, local authorities, and the private sector to organize more events aimed at attracting tourists, especially during the Green Season (April to October). Crucially, the Premier called for the promotion of green investment in tourism through 4Ps (Public-Private-People Partnerships), in line with the principle of "Conservation for Development, Development for Conservation," to ensure the sector’s long-term benefits.