Cambodia

Thailand's Ministry of Interior granted a 6-month waiver for Cambodian migrant workers in its eastern border provinces, allowing them to remain in the country due to ongoing border restrictions. The waiver applies to workers with a border pass who were previously employed for seasonal or daily work. To remain eligible, workers must report to their immigration checkpoint within 15 days of the waiver's announcement and every 30 days thereafter. The waiver will be terminated once the border re-opens or if the worker violates the law

According to the Angkor Enterprise report, from Jan-Jul 2025, the Angkor Archaeological Park welcomed 53,291 Chinese tourists, +21% YoY. During this period, China was the fourth-largest source of international tourists to Angkor, following the U.S., Britain, and France. However, in Jul alone, China became the number one source of visitors, with 5,720 tourists

The Ministry of Environment is building roads and tourist facilities at Khnang Phsar Mountain in Kampong Spey province, with completion set for October. The project includes a 7.2-kilometre road, a 4-kilometre stone path to a temple, and facilities like rest areas, a cafe, and an information centre. This initiative aims to boost ecotourism, create jobs, and ensure sustainable development

Cambodia's Minister of Tourism met with the Director of the Lancang Mekong International Channel to plan major tourism events in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Both sides agreed on a project to invite prominent Chinese journalists and influencers to Cambodia to gain an understanding about the country

Cambodia submitted its Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), aiming to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by up to 55% by 2035 under a conditional scenario. Cambodia estimates it will need $32.229 billion in funding to implement the plan

On 12 Aug, Cambodia's Minister of Tourism convened a meeting to review and assess the performance of the ministry's subordinate units. The conference was attended by 31 authorities. He urged all units to act in a proactive and cooperative manner, encouraging them to create and execute action plans with a strong sense of accountability and ownership

The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) is planning to launch bilateral cross-border payments with Singapore, Japan, and India, as part of a broader strategy to expand the use of QR code-based payments within the Bakong project. The Phase 2 system for payments is already active with UnionPay International (UPI) and Malaysia. MoU have been signed with the Philippines and Indonesia for future launches. The NBC has also joined the NEXUS Observatory, aimed at accelerating cross-border payment connectivity

According to the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), from Jan-Jul 2025, a total of 440 investment projects were registered, +88% YoY. The total investment capital amounted to $6.7 billion USD, +84% YoY. In Jul alone, the Cambodian Investment Board approved 67 projects with a total capital of around $944 million USD, +138% YoY. These projects have the potential to create around 57,000 jobs

According to the National Bank of Cambodia’s (NBC) latest First Semester Report: In H1 2025, headline inflation averaged 3.5%, having peaked at 6% in Jan In H2 2025, inflation is projected to slow to 1.3% The forecast for the year as a whole is an average of 2.4% (NBC) and 2.5% (AMRO) Drivers of inflation include food prices, with food inflation averaged 4.8% in H1, declining global crude oil prices, and higher costs for housing maintenance, restaurants, and clothing The ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) report forecasts inflation to ease in 2026 to 2.3% but cautions that the outlook remains uncertain due to fluctuating food prices and the rapid pass-through of global commodity costs

The Minister of Tourism met with the European Union Ambassador to Cambodia. Key discussions include developing eco-tourism projects to support local communities, and exploring the potential for direct flights from major European airlines to Cambodia

During a briefing on Cambodia’s tourism on 10 Aug, the Cambodian Ambassador to Kuwait said that while 11 MoUs exist between the 2 nations, the actual trade and investment flows have not yet reached their full potential. He added that tourist arrivals from Kuwait to Cambodia are low, but many visitors are involved in humanitarian work. The ambassador shared that he is actively working to establish a direct flight between the 2 countries

Siem Reap is experiencing a significant downturn in tourism, primarily attributed to a border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand over the Preah Vihear temple area. Hotel occupancy rates have collapsed, and many local businesses, including souvenir shops and tuk-tuk drivers, are struggling. Local operators state that the conflict has worsened the usual mid-year low season, and they are seeking urgent action to restore traveller confidence

On 7 Aug, Cambodia's Minister of Tourism met with a high-level delegation from China's Shanxi Province, led by the Director of the Shanxi Provincial Department of Commerce. Key initiatives discussed include the development of joint tour packages that combine Cambodia's world heritage sites with Shanxi's ancient culture and landscapes. Discussions also focused on the establishment of direct flights linking Phnom Penh and Siem Reap with major cities in Shanxi Province. Both sides have agreed to organise a familiarisation trip for Shanxi investors to Cambodia

On 7 Aug, Cambodian Minister of Tourism met with a delegation from the Airavata Elephant Foundation to discuss the promotion of ecotourism. The meeting focused on wildlife conservation, specifically through the protection of elephants in the Rattanakiri region. According to the foundation’s Honorary Vice President, the foundation assists both domestic and international tourists who visit the elephants and other attractions in the province

Cambodia's Minister of Tourism met with the Khmer Elephant Conservation Foundation, discussing promoting eco-tourism in Ratanakiri province through the conservation of local elephants. The Foundation promotes eco-tourism by allowing domestic and international visitors to engage directly with the elephants

The Extraordinary General Border Committee (GBC) meeting between Cambodia and Thailand resulted in a 13-point agreement. Both nations agreed to a ceasefire involving all types of weapons and any form of attack on civilian and military targets. Both sides must maintain their current troop deployments, without any further movement or patrols. They have agreed not to engage in any provocative actions, and will not use force against civilians or civilian objects under any circumstances. Both sides also agreed not to spread false information or fake news. Captured soldiers are to be treated in accordance with international humanitarian law and released immediately after hostilities cease. The Regional Border Committee (RBC) Meeting is scheduled to be convened within 2 weeks, and another General Border Committee (GBC) Meeting will be held within 1 month

Over 100,000 Cambodian migrant workers returned from Thailand through the Daung International Border Gate in Battambang province. The return has been coordinated by Battambang Governor Sok Lou and a joint task force. In response to the influx, the Cambodian government provided free and safe transportation for returning workers using hundreds of buses

Cambodia's Prime Minister formally nominated President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, with the nomination sent in a letter dated 7 Aug to the Nobel Committee. The nomination is in recognition of Trump's role in brokering a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand

Cambodia's Minister of Tourism met with 80 scholarship students, who are set to study in various countries including Korea, China, Japan, France, and Ireland, encouraging them to act as ambassadors for Cambodian culture, heritage, and socio-economic progress. A key point was the students' role in countering false or misleading information about Cambodia and promoting an accurate understanding of the country and the leadership of the Prime Minister. Her urged the recipients to return to Cambodia after their studies to share their knowledge and contribute to national development

On 5 Aug, a Cambodian delegation led by the Director-General of Tourism Development participated in a workshop on the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan 2026-2030. The workshop's purpose was to discuss the future of ASEAN tourism, including marketing strategies, project preparation, and institutional frameworks. The Director recommended that the current institutional framework for ASEAN tourism be maintained, suggesting a review of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) expert group's proposals. He proposed keeping the existing structure of four sub-committees that meet twice a year

During a 3-day secretariat-level meeting held in Malaysia, a basic consensus was reached between Thailand and Cambodia on the terms of reference (TOR) for monitoring the ceasefire. This monitoring will be carried out by the interim ASEAN Defence Attache Observer Team (AOT), including representatives from Malaysia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam. A final agreement is expected to be formalised at an Extraordinary General Border Committee (GBC) Meeting to be held on 8 Aug

According to the National Bank of Cambodia’s (NBC)’s report, in H1 2025, Cambodia's economy expanded by 5.9%, driven by strong performance in the manufacturing, tourism, and agricultural sectors. The NBC projects a slowdown in H2 2025 due to rising external risks such as geopolitical tensions and global economic slowdowns. Inflation was at 3.5% in H1 2025, mainly due to rising food prices. However, it is projected to ease to low levels in H2 2025. The Riel appreciated by 1.6% YoY against the US dollar

The Cambodia Tourism Board (CTB) met to assess the tourism sector's progress during H1 2025 and to plan strategic measures for the rest of the year and into 2026, addressing the challenges facing the tourism industry due to the recent conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. An action plan was proposed, including improving collaboration among stakeholders, supporting tourism diversification efforts, and enhancing the sector's adaptability to future disruptions

The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) and Pravinya signed an agreement to develop and operate the Visitcambodia website and the Visit Cambodia App. The Visitcambodia platform will feature integrated services including hotel, restaurant, shop and taxi bookings, as well as destination and attraction searches, itinerary planning and digital payment capabilities. MoT stated that this platform will help local businesses compete more effectively in international markets

The Royal Thai Army claimed that Cambodia opened fire at Thai locations in Chong An Ma, Chong Bok, Prasat Ta Kwai, Phu Makhuea and Sam Tae areas. The Thai Army Spokesperson condemned the act, saying that it “shows an intention to violate the (ceasefire) agreement and ruin a mutual trust system”

The General Border Committee meeting between Thailand and Cambodia will be observed by China, the United States and Malaysia

The Ministry of Tourism has released a statement confirming that Cambodia is completely safe to visit and fully open to tourism

Angkor Archaeological Park recorded $28.6 million USD from ticket sales from Jan-Jul 2025, +5.3% YoY. It welcomed 618,771 international tourists, +5.8% YoY. In Jul 2025, 51,098 foreign tourists visited, -18% YoY, with Jul 2025 ticket sales at $2.23 million USD, -17% YoY

The General Border Committee meeting between Thailand and Cambodia will take place in Kuala Lumpur from 4-7 Aug

Two Cambodian soldiers stranded in Thai territory following recent border clashes have been returned to Cambodia after receiving help from the Second Region Army

Thailand is set to repatriate 20 Cambodian soldiers on 1 Aug. The handover will take place at the Chong Chom permanent border checkpoint in Surin province. The Royal Thai Army rejected the accusation of abduction, stating the soldiers were treated as military personnel, not criminals, and their care upholds international law. According to a report by Khmer Times, 21 military personnel were detained and Cambodia has already received the body of 1 soldier

On 31 Jul, Thailand's Acting Defence Minister made a request letter asking Cambodia to move a bilateral meeting of senior security officials from Phnom Penh to a neutral location, proposing Malaysia. The Thai minister also requested that the meeting be extended until 7 Aug to allow more time for discussions. Thailand established an interim team of observers, which includes military attaches from ASEAN member states, to monitor the ceasefire

On 30 Jul, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) announced that the full service to the Ban Khlong Luek border checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province is back. The final section of the eastern line, between Aranyaprathet and the border, had been suspended since 26 Jul due to armed clashes. The closure had disrupted travel and small-scale trade and tourism in eastern Thailand. Tensions at the border have not completely eased, and other local tourism in the region has been severely affected, with Sa Kaeo's Aranyaprathet district experiencing a 100% hotel booking cancellation rate

Cambodia and Thailand will hold mediation talks to resolve a border dispute at an upcoming General Border Committee (GBC) meeting from 4-7 Aug in Malaysia. Cambodia also proposed that representatives from Malaysia, the U.S., and China attend the meeting as observers

TUI BLUE Angkor Grace Resort, a new luxury wellness destination which is a collaboration between German company TUI BLUE and Angkor Grace, was inaugurated in Siem Reap Province on 30 Jul. This is the second investment in Cambodia for TUI BLUE Hotels & Resorts

Cambodia will nominate Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in brokering a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand

The Preah Sihanouk Provincial Investment Promotion Working Group approved 27 new business and investment projects in Q2 2025. These projects are valued at around $282 million USD, +11% QoQ, expected to create around 1,812 jobs. The projects are made up of 17 stalled construction projects, 8 new ventures, 1 expansion, and 1 existing project, covering sectors such as automobile assembly and parts manufacturing, hotels, tourism resorts, and multifunctional buildings. According to the working group, incentives for investors include tax benefits and simplified administrative and legal processes

Cambodian Prime Minister appealed to Thailand to promptly return all 20 of its captured forces. A senior Cambodian defence official reported that 1 Cambodian soldier has died in Thai custody since the ceasefire. A Thai Rear Admiral confirmed that Thailand has custody of 20 Cambodian soldiers who had surrendered, and they are being investigated before being released. Thailand's Acting Prime Minister denied that the Thai military violated the ceasefire agreement

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reported that 100% of hotel bookings have been cancelled in some provinces due to the ongoing border tension. In border areas, such as Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat, cancellation rates were between 80%-100%. Island destinations like Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood have seen cancellations of 10%-60%. Northeastern provinces, including Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, and Surin, reported 100% cancellations for group tours. Major attractions, like Phanom Rung Historical Park, have been closed, and events at the Chang International Circuit were postponed. Asian tourists account for the highest number of cancellations at 47%, followed by Thai tourists at 35%, Europeans at 11.8%, and Middle Eastern visitors at 5.8%

Thailand's Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) is preparing to terminate a power purchase agreement with Cambodia. The PEA's governor stated that the termination is a legal requirement after power was cut off days before a Thai soldier was injured by a landmine on 16 Jul. The state utility plans to use the 50 megawatts of electricity previously sold to Cambodia to meet domestic demand

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights called on Thailand and Cambodia to fully respect and implement their ceasefire, which was agreed on 28 Jul. He also urged both governments to counter harmful rhetoric and misinformation and to ensure the safety and protection of each other's nationals on their territory

Despite recent border tensions, the Apsara National Authority (ANA) reported that Siem Reap and Angkor Wat remain safe and secure for visitors, with daily foreign tourist numbers of 1,500-1,800, slightly increasing compared to last year. ANA also improved infrastructure to enhance the visitor experience. However, an English-speaking tour guide noted a decrease in new foreign bookings

On 29 Jul, a delegation from Beihai city met with Cambodia's Ministry of Tourism to propose a collaboration on a digitalisation project, using artificial intelligence (AI) technology called "Enowa" to create a digital platform for Cambodia's tourism industry. The Minister of Tourism welcomed the proposal, stating that it aligns with the Royal Government of Cambodia's policies on digitalisation. Cambodia received 586,771 Chinese tourists in H1 2025, +50.7% YoY

On 30 Jul, the Chinese Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs hosted an "informal consultation" in Shanghai with representatives from Thailand and Cambodia, and secured a commitment from both nations to adhere to the ceasefire. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said that China is working to restore peace and stability along the Thai-Cambodian border and supports the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) in finding a political solution

UNESCO offered technical assistance to Cambodia and Thailand to help protect and preserve cultural heritage sites near their shared border. It initiated satellite-based monitoring of the affected areas to assess potential damage. To support protection efforts, UNESCO shared the geographical coordinates of the heritage sites with both countries

The 10th Angkor Empire Marathon has been postponed after an earlier announcement that the event would proceed, following criticism from the public and participants. The National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) states the marathon will be rescheduled once conditions are safe

Foreign policy analysts state that Cambodia's tourism sector is bearing a heavier burden compared to Thailand in the recent conflict. The conflict led to a sharp decline in Thai nationals crossing the border to gamble in Cambodian casino towns like Poipet

The U.S. President Trump announced that he had asked U.S. officials to resume trade negotiations with Cambodia and Thailand. This follows both nations agreeing to a ceasefire along their disputed border. Trump leveraged trade as a tool, threatening Thailand and Cambodia with 36% levies if they didn't cease hostilities and reach agreement

The 10th Angkor Empire Marathon will proceed as planned on 3 Aug, following the recent resolution of border tensions. The National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) formally confirmed and reassured competitors that the border situation has stabilised

On 29 Jul, a day after a ceasefire was agreed, a meeting was held between the Commander of Military Region 4 (Cambodia) and the Commander of Military Region 2 (Thailand) at the O Smach International Gate in Oddar Meanchey Province

On 28 Jul, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an "immediate and unconditional" ceasefire, after 5 days of fighting. The conflict killed at least 36 people and displaced over 200,000. The Malaysian Prime Minister mediated the talks, and U.S. President Donald Trump also intervened. A meeting of military commanders is scheduled for 29 Jul, followed by a cross-border committee meeting in Cambodia on 4th Aug. An AFP journalist reported hearing continuing artillery blasts in Samraong, Cambodia, even as the ceasefire was announced

According to the data from the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT), from 24-27 Jul, over 200,000 Cambodian nationals, primarily migrant workers, returned home from Thailand. This influx follows Thailand’s incursion into Cambodian territory and reports of discrimination and abuse. MLVT spokesman said that the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT) is guaranteeing job opportunities and preparing to provide skills training for the returnees

In H1 2025, Cambodia received 3.36 million international tourists, +6.2% YoY, with Thailand (928,027), Vietnam (619,300) and China (586,771, +50.7% YoY) the top source markets

The UN Secretary-General called for an immediate ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand and to use dialogue to address issues

President Trump called both the Thai and Cambodian leaders to encourage them to stop fighting, noting that the US does “not want to make any Deal, with either Country, if they are fighting — And I have told them so!”. Both leaders were said to have supported a ceasefire

Cambodia's Ministry of National Defence confirmed that a cross-border attack by Thai forces in Pursat province on 26 Jul killed 13 Cambodian nationals, including 5 soldiers and 8 civilians, and wounded 21 soldiers and at least 50 civilians. The Ministry stated that heavy artillery fire targeted Ekphap Village and that 35,829 civilians have been evacuated from high-risk areas in Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey, and Pursat provinces. Furthermore, the Ministry of National Defence accused Thailand of violating international humanitarian law by indiscriminately attacking civilians, bombing villages and sacred sites, and using cluster munitions

According to the Chief of Sra’em Commune, 54 civilians, including men, women, and children were successfully evacuated from Preah Vihear Temple, where they were trapped by the ongoing border conflict. However, 12 people remain stranded at the temple as rescue efforts continue

The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport in Cambodia announced the temporary closure of 488 schools in Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Koh Kong, and Pursat provinces. Some schools in affected areas are being used as temporary shelters for displaced civilians

From 26-27 Jul, Phnom Penh hosted its first-ever Shopping Festival at the Koh Pich Exhibition and Convention Center, featuring nearly 200 booths, with local and international brands, including Cambodian-made products like Khmer silk. The festival helps businesses showcase brands, sell surplus stock, and offer discounts of up to 80%

On 25 Jul, the APSARA National Authority (ANA), in collaboration with the Korean Heritage Agency, launched the APSARA Conservation Science Centre in Siem Reap Province, aimed at enhancing conservation and restoration efforts for temples within the Angkor site. The centre is equipped with $300,000 USD worth of modern equipment

Cambodia's Secretariat of State for Civil Aviation clarified flight rules over the Cambodia-Thai border conflict zone. Flights operating below 11 kms altitude in the combat area must now use a detour, while those above 11 kilometres are still permitted to fly. He added that this initial flight guidance might be expanded depending on the evolving situation in the conflict area

Thailand presented a letter to the United Nations to inform of “the grave situation affecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Thailand as a result of Cambodia's act of military aggression”

A 4-day border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia killed 33 and displaced over 168,000, prompting mediation by U.S. President Donald Trump. Both nations agreed in principle to ceasefire talks following Trump's intervention, though fighting persists and mutual blame continues for shelling and troop movements. Thailand reported 20 deaths, mainly civilians, while Cambodia reported 13 fatalities. Over 131,000 Thai citizens and over 37,000 Cambodians from 3 provinces have been displaced

A Qatari investment firm, AI Mansour Asia, plans to invest in Cambodia's infrastructure development to boost its tourism sector as discussed in a recent meeting with the President of the Senate of Cambodia. The proposed investments cover diverse sectors including agriculture, industry, logistics, and tourism-specific infrastructure such as hotels, entertainment venues, airports, and island development. AI Mansour Asia views Cambodia as a priority for investments in Southeast Asia. In response, the President encouraged investments in food processing and agricultural raw materials, specifically proposing rice milling operations to serve as a food supply link to Middle Eastern nations

Cambodia's Ministry of Tourism formally urged UN Tourism to condemn Thailand's recent armed attacks, which it claims severely damaged the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Preah Vihear Temple. The letter describes the actions as "premeditated and deliberate military aggression", causing structural damage to key architectural components of the temple. Cambodia asserts that these actions violate international conventions, threaten tourist safety, and undermine efforts for peaceful cross-border tourism. While other Cambodian authorities have also denounced the damage, UNESCO has yet to issue a public statement

On 24 Jul, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) issued a travel advisory, detailing closures of several border checkpoints and nearby tourist areas in 7 eastern and north-eastern provinces (Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Si Sa Ket, Buri Ram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat). Affected attractions include Phu Chong-Na Yoi National Park, Phanom Sawai Forest Park, and Khao Phra Wihan National Park. The CEO of Thai Airways said that the airline is assessing the situation and is prepared to evacuate staff from Cambodia if the conflict escalates. The Chairman of PATA Cambodia Chapter affirmed that Cambodia remains open to travellers, with all major tourism destinations being fully secure and operating normally. He warned that such clashes create a "ripple effect" by influencing potential travellers' perceptions of safety

Thailand’s military has officially declared martial law in several districts of Chanthaburi and Trat provinces, claiming the move was necessary to “protect Thai sovereignty, territorial integrity, and public safety in light of the escalating conflict”. Martial law is now in effect in the following districts: Mueang Chanthaburi, Tha Mai, Makham, Laem Sing, Kaeng Hang Maeo, Na Yai Am, and Khao Khitchakut in Chanthaburi Province, and Khao Saming District in Trat Province. The order grants expanded powers to military authorities to ensure security and enforce law and order, including the authority to restrict movement, control communications, and mobilise resources for national defence. The Thai military claims the move is a defensive response to Cambodian military actions, but Cambodian officials have denied initiating aggression and maintain that Cambodia is acting in self-defence

Thailand's Office of the Basic Education Commission (Obec) has temporarily closed 751 schools along the Thai-Cambodian border due to escalating tensions and recent artillery shelling that killed a student. Schools in conflict proximity were instructed to evacuate students and suspend classes immediately. The minister outlined both short-term and long-term recovery measures to prevent students from dropping out, provide mental health support, and restore educational access

Thailand's Foreign Ministry rejected mediation offers from third countries, including the U.S., China, and Malaysia, insisting on bilateral talks as the solution and demanding that Cambodia cease attacks along the border immediately

The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia erupted into fighting on 24 Jul, involving jets, artillery, tanks, and ground troops. The clashes occurred hours after Thailand expelled the Cambodian ambassador, with over 100,000 people fleeing border fighting. These civilians from 4 Thai border provinces have been moved to nearly 300 temporary shelters. According to the Cambodian Health Ministry, the death toll rose to 14, including 13 civilians and 1 soldier. Around 1,500 Cambodian families have also been evacuated. Cambodia downgraded diplomatic ties to "the lowest level," recalling all but 1 of its diplomats and expelling Thai diplomats from Phnom Penh. The UN Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting on the crisis on 25 Jul

On 24 Jul, Smartraveller, the Australian federal government's travel advice website, updated its guidance, advising Australians to reconsider travel to the affected border regions of Thailand and Cambodia and to avoid travel to these areas within 50 kilometres of the land border. Smartraveller reiterates an ongoing risk of terrorism in popular Thai tourist areas, including Bangkok and Phuket, unrelated to the border conflict. Australians in either country are urged to avoid the border zones, monitor local media, and follow the directions of local authorities. They are also advised to register travel plans on the Smartraveller website for updates and consular support

On 24 Jul, Thailand conducted air strikes on Cambodian military targets, while Cambodia fired rockets and artillery. Both militaries accused the other of starting the hostilities. Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister stated that the country acted in "self-defence to defend its sovereignty" and that operations would continue until the border situation normalised. As of 25 Jul, at least 15 people were killed in Thailand (14 civilians, 1 soldier), and 1 civilian was reported killed in Cambodia. Over 120,000 people have been displaced from both sides of the border and moved to temporary shelters

During a meeting at the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism between the Minister of Tourism and the Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (LPDR), both sides reaffirmed their commitment to more actively implement the 2022 MoU on Tourism Cooperation. Discussions also focused on attracting more international tourists, increasing existing direct flights, and simplifying travel procedures, particularly for those living near the border who wish to visit tourist sites in the border provinces

On 23 Jul, the ruling Pheu Thai party announced that Thailand downgraded diplomatic relations with Cambodia, recalling its ambassador and planning to expel Cambodia's ambassador. Cambodia's foreign ministry denied planting new landmines, asserting that Thai soldiers deviated from agreed patrol routes into Cambodian territory, entering areas with existing unexploded landmines. The Thai government ordered the closure of all border checkpoints under its jurisdiction, strictly prohibiting tourist entry

On 22 Jul, Cambodia's Minister of Tourism met with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan to discuss strengthening bilateral tourism cooperation and increasing tourist exchanges

On 20 Jul, the Thai army discovered 2 additional new anti-personnel mines on Thai territory near the Cambodian border, close to where 3 Thai soldiers were injured by a landmine explosion. An army spokesman said that the mines were safely defused and removed. Thai authorities concluded that the mines were deliberately placed to kill personnel, a violation of the Ottawa Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. The Thai government is set to issue a formal written protest to the President of the Ottawa Convention on the issue. The Foreign Affairs Ministry will formally protest to the Cambodian government in writing. Thailand will provide briefings to key international partners and relevant organisations, especially countries involved in Cambodian demining efforts

The 10th Angkor Empire International Marathon is scheduled for 3 Aug, attracting 4,500 runners. The event is monitored by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, ensuring adherence to international standards. Among the top international groups of runners are those from China, Japan, and Malaysia. Organisers anticipate between 5,000 and 6,000 participants for the 2026 marathon, citing increasing international interest and collaboration with Chinese partners

According to an analysis by S&P Global Ratings, Cambodia's gross gaming revenue (GGR) is lagging behind other Asia-Pacific countries and is not expected to reach pre-pandemic levels in the near term due to the elimination of junket operations within Cambodia's casino sector. The Commercial Gambling Management Commission of Cambodia (CGMC) established 13 on-site offices within licensed casinos to maintain strict regulatory enforcement