The Covid-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on Cambodia’s tourism sector  however, it was handled well with the proactive efforts of the government and the timely introduction of socio-economic development policies, a top tourism official has said.

Speaking at an event on the recovery of the tourism sector, Tith Chantha, the Permanent Secretary of State of the Ministry of Tourism said that Cambodia remains a safe and green tourist destination in the region as well as the world.

He said that due to pressure from external factors – including the conflict in Ukraine and the economic crisis – there has been a decrease in purchasing power.

He went on to add that competition from neighbouring countries and changes in the global tourism behaviour will hit the recovery process in the post-Covid-19 period.

Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism said that Cambodia is in the recovery phase and the country is a safe and quality tourist destination.

In order to support and promote the revival of the economic sector within the framework of tourism policy and strategy development, the Ministry of Tourism has prepared a document, he added.

The document contains a roadmap for the recovery of tourism in Cambodia and Master Plans for Siem Reap, Mondulkiri and Kep, according to Khon.

Cambodia’s tourism sector has grown significantly and serves as a vital pillar of the country’s economy. It has an average annual growth rate of 12 percent with 2019 being the peak year when it saw more than 6.6 million international tourists (an increase of 6 percent).

Unfortunately, during 2020 and 2021, tourism declined sharply due to Covid-19, which affected international tourism and caused many businesses in the sector to reduce, suspend or close, which resulted in tens of thousands employees losing their jobs or income.

Source: KhmerTimes