Cambodia

400 fuel depots and petrol stations remain closed in Cambodia, according to the Ministry of Commerce on 14 Mar

From 27-29 Mar, the 10th River Festival will return to Kratie province under the theme "Green River, Cultural Heritage and Natural Heritage", featuring a programme of art performances, exhibition booths, and various cultural, religious, and sporting activities. According to the Tourism Minister, the festival attracted over 300,000 visitors all times in total

Nearly 2,000 of Cambodia's 6,300 petrol stations suspended sales amid rising global oil prices, prompting the Commerce Minister to launch nationwide inspections to investigate suspected fuel hoarding. While regular gasoline and diesel have reached 5,200 and 6,050 riels per litre respectively, the government has warned that operators found deliberately withholding stock to profit from the crisis face heavy fines and permanent closure

Cambodia's Minister of Mines and Energy has confirmed that the government will continue to shoulder the burden of rising electricity production costs to ensure tariff stability for the public and industrial sectors. Although coal accounts for 30% of the nation's power mix, its generation costs have climbed due to global fuel price surges and transportation disruptions linked to Middle East tensions. He stressed that the government remains committed to maintaining a sufficient and stable power supply without increasing costs for consumers

Cambodia aims to shut down all online scam centres by the end of Apr 2026, having already targeted 250 locations and closed 200 (80%) of them since Jul. A Senior Minister reported that the crackdown has led to 79 legal cases against nearly 700 ringleaders and the repatriation of almost 10,000 workers from 23 countries who were often forced into "near-slavery" to conduct cryptocurrency and romance scams. Experts warn that past efforts have failed to dismantle the underlying financial and protection networks or reach perpetrators among the ruling elite

Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the safety of all 595 citizens currently in the Middle East, including around 250 agricultural students in Israel. Authorities remain in daily contact with these individuals. He added that most Cambodian students are situated in lower-risk suburban zones and continue their studies

Marriott International announced the signing of an agreement with KS Hotels to bring The Luxury Collection to Cambodia and Laos through converting La Residence Angkor in Siem Reap and La Residence Phou Vao in Luang Prabang to the collection. It will be the first Marriott property in Laos and the first The Luxury Collection in both countries

The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism has reaffirmed the country’s status as a safe and stable destination under the leadership of the Prime Minister. The Ministry stated that despite global geopolitical tensions and climate concerns, the government has implemented strict measures to combat crimes such as online scams, ensuring that travel by land, air, and sea remains reliable. The Ministry encouraged travellers to continue visiting the country

From 3-5 Mar 2026, the Cambodia Tourism Board (CTB) and 8 industry partners exhibited at ITB Berlin. The delegation met with around 250 partners, including international tour operators, airlines, and media representatives. A key highlight was the announcement of a new subsidy programme aimed at bringing 500 travel agents on familiarisation trips to Cambodia between May - Oct 2026 to further strengthen global tourism ties

According to Angkor Enterprise, a total of 14,334 Chinese tourists visited the Angkor Archaeological Park in Jan and Feb 2026, -39% YoY. China is currently the fourth largest source of international visitors, following the U.S., France, and Britain

Fueled by escalating conflict in the Middle East, Cambodian retail oil prices are set to rise sharply from 11-13 Mar, with regular gasoline reaching $1.30 USD (+18%) and diesel hitting $1.51 (+17.4%) USD per litre. To address supply concerns, the Mines and Energy Minister confirmed that the kingdom holds strategic oil reserves sufficient to last for 21 days

On 9 Mar, the Thai Labour Minister reaffirmed that Thailand will not admit new Cambodian workers or reopen borders for new arrivals, prioritising national security and background screenings over private sector concerns regarding labour shortages. The government's focus remains on managing existing registered staff, with authorities currently considering a 6-month extension for 53,809 workers whose permits expire on 31 Mar 2026. Additionally, a 3-month extension is being weighed for 6,072 seasonal fruit pickers, while 85,117 workers under bilateral agreements are expected to complete their 4-year terms by the end of 2026

On the evening of 10 Mar, a major forest fire erupted on the Cambodian side of the Banthat mountain range, with flames visible from over 20 km away in Thailand's Trat province. The blaze triggered multiple explosions of buried landmines due to the intense heat, though no injuries or fatalities have been reported. While the fire has not yet spread into Thai territory, local villagers remain concerned about drifting ash and air pollution

Intrepid Travel has launched an 8-day women-only expedition in Cambodia to meet a 32% growth in its female-focused tours, which are currently dominated by solo travellers. The itinerary will be led by an all-female team of guides and drivers, aiming to advance gender equality by providing meaningful economic opportunities for women

On 8 Mar, a 78-kilometre "Phnom Penh-Takeo" cycling event was held to promote domestic sports tourism and environmental awareness. Around 1,000 participants took part, including local residents, international visitors, senior officials, and social media influencers. Alongside promoting public health and women's participation in sport, the event served a humanitarian purpose through the donation of study materials to underprivileged students

The Prime Minister has ordered government institutions to prioritise the safety of 487 Cambodian citizens currently in 7 countries across the Middle East, including 282 students residing in Israel. He also directed the Ministries of Commerce and Energy to monitor global oil markets and domestic supply levels

On 5 Mar, the Bahamas-registered cruise ship Norwegian Sun docked at Sihanoukville for a one-day visit, carrying 1,831 international passengers and 891 crew members. The majority of tourists are from the US (1,075) and Canada (223)

The Prime Minister announced that the Royal Government will provide free bus services for citizens travelling from the capital to the provinces during the Khmer New Year, scheduled for 14-16 Apr 2026. The initiative will deploy around 600 public buses to reduce travel costs for workers, students, and residents returning to their hometowns

According to the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MISTI), by the end of 2025, Cambodia’s formally registered SMEs reached 44,795, including 1,262 newly registered firms, collectively supporting 492,131 jobs. 8,670 enterprises are women-owned. The government has transitioned 270,000 individuals into the formal economy via digital platforms and is providing further support through accelerated digital transformation and low-interest loans from the state-run SME Bank

Cambodian businesses are concerned that the escalating Middle East conflict could severely impact the garment, tourism, real estate, and banking sectors. While oil prices initially saw a moderate 7% rise, experts warn that a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz would trigger spiked freight charges, raw material costs, and a surge in non-performing loans. The Group CEO of Cambodian Investment Management Holdings (CIM) said that the tourism sector faces setbacks from closed airspace, flight cancellations, and higher travel costs. Analysts urge the government to stabilise fuel pricing, offer tax relief on oil imports, and monitor food prices to protect low-income households

On 2 Mar, a delegation of Malaysian investors proposed a large-scale project titled “The Kingdom’s Grand Prix & Gala” to be hosted in Cambodia for the first time in 2026. The initiative features 3 major international events, including a music festival blending contemporary and cultural talent, professional coastal powerboat racing, and an elite motorsport grand tour aimed at high-spending tourists. The Minister of Tourism reaffirmed the ministry's support for the proposal, noting its potential to create jobs, and boost the local economy

The International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) Secretary-General pledged full support for Cambodia’s hosting of the 20th Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh on 15 and 16 Nov 2026, following high-level meetings with the Prime Minister and the Senate President Hun Sen. The Kingdom reaffirmed its readiness in terms of security and infrastructure for the summit

According to Angkor Enterprise, from Jan-Feb 2026, Angkor Wat recorded ticket revenue falling roughly 30% YoY to $9 million USD. Foreign visitor numbers totalled around 189,000 (-32% YoY). Despite this downturn, the state-owned Angkor Enterprise contributed around $378,000 USD to the Kantha Bopha Foundation to support national medical activities

On 27 Feb, the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism and the National Defence University signed an MoU to collaborate on training, capacity building, and the promotion of domestic tourism. The agreement integrates tourism topics into military and public service curricula to enhance expertise in cultural heritage and sustainable practices. Beyond education, the partnership aims to encourage Cambodians to visit historical and rural sites, linking the "smoke-free" tourism industry to national peace and stability while fostering resilient, environmentally friendly development

On 27 Feb, the Vietnamese Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs met with the Cambodian First Deputy Prime Minister in Phnom Penh to implement agreements from the 6 Feb 2026 high-level summit. The discussions focused on the logistical and legal frameworks overseeing the 1,270-kilometre border. Both nations are prioritising the finalisation of a new land border management treaty to replace the outdated 1983 agreement and are accelerating negotiations on gate management

From Jan-Sep 2025, Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism recorded only 62 arrivals from Hong Kong, while in 2017, the country welcomed over 13,000 Hong Kong tourists. Cambodia Tourism Board CEO is seeking to build ties with Hong Kong travel agencies to restore visitor confidence following years of safety concerns due to scam centres. The board aims to invite 500 global travel agents to visit Cambodia in 2026, with about 20% expected to come from China, including Hong Kong and Macau. The Executive Director of Goldjoy Travel said that Hong Kong residents are opting for alternative destinations like Vietnam

At the launch of Visa’s “Digitally Inclusive Commerce Ecosystem (DICE)” in Phnom Penh, the Tourism Minister emphasised that digital transformation must be inclusive, ensuring that micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) benefit from the shift. He praised private-sector initiatives integrating cashless systems, enhancing convenience for tourists, and encouraging local spending

To mark the 75th anniversary of Cambodia’s UNESCO membership, the Ministry of Tourism and UNESCO have pledged to strengthen their collaboration on sustainable heritage tourism. This partnership focuses on safeguarding the value of major sites like Angkor Wat, Sambor Prei Kuk, and Preah Vihear Temple, while seeking technical assistance for conservation efforts. Additionally, following the success of Battambang as a Creative City of Gastronomy, the Ministry is preparing new applications for the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Kampot city, Kratie, and Ratanakiri provinces

The Ministry of Tourism announced that the Angkor Wat Spring Equinox will take place from 21-23 Mar. According to ministry officials, the 3-day window offers the most precise alignment between the site and the solar path

Angkor Artisans Co., Ltd. has officially broken ground on the $5 million USD Angkor Artisans Resort in Siem Reap, a development designed to modernise the promotion of Khmer craftsmanship. The development spans 10,000 square metres in Siem Reap and features the Angkor Artisans Theatre, a venue designed to combine traditional heritage with digital technology. Building on its current "living workshop" model where guests observe centuries-old techniques in carving, silversmithing, and weaving, the new resort will evolve into a fully immersive destination by integrating theatrical performances and digital light-and-sound productions

Tourism Minister Huot Hak has met with AROSCO CEO to discuss transforming Cambodia into a premier golf tourism destination through international events. The initiative aims to leverage the country’s 11 licensed golf courses and 5 practice facilities to boost global visibility. The Minister has requested a formal action plan to begin a collaborative review process between the ministry and national golf authorities

The Chairman of the Secretariat of the Commission for Combating Technology Crime reported on 25 Feb that Cambodia’s crackdown has halved online scam activity since the start of 2026, with authorities aiming for total control of all operations by Apr. While enforcement has led to nearly 500 arrests and the extradition of alleged kingpin Chen Zhi, the FBI and UN warn that these sophisticated, multi-billion-dollar syndicates remain highly adaptable. Analysts remain sceptical that the crackdown will fully eradicate these lucrative enterprises, which increasingly leverage artificial intelligence and human trafficking to generate global profits

On 24 Feb 2026, the luxury cruise ship Seabourn Encore docked at the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, carrying 529 international passengers from 23 nationalities, and 415 crew members

According to the Siem Reap Provincial Department of Tourism, since the COVID-19 outbreak, Siem Reap has seen 124 permanent closures and 72 suspensions among its 1,512 tourism businesses, with guesthouses and hotels the most affected. In Jan 2026, Siem Reap welcomed 197,881 tourists (-34.96% YoY), including 104,390 domestic tourists, and 93,491 foreigners visitors. Local operators cite high flight costs, border tensions with Thailand, and the reputational impact of international reporting on scam centres as primary obstacles to a full recovery

The Deputy Secretary-General of the Cambodia Investment Committee met with the President of the France-Cambodia Parliamentary Friendship Group during his working mission (23-28 Feb). Both nations aim to use the 20th Francophonie Summit as a platform to launch a major investment and business forum. Discussions focused on increasing French presence in logistics, agro-industry, healthcare, and the automotive industry. The collaboration seeks to establish Cambodia as a competitive hub for European capital within Southeast Asia through "Business-to-Business" initiatives

On 24 Feb, Thai and Cambodian forces allegedly exchanged fire in the border province of Sisaket. Cambodia fired a single 40mm grenade at a Thai patrol, Thailand responded with an M79 grenade launcher. No Thai personnel were reported injured in this incident. The Thai army spokesman accused Cambodia of violating their ceasefire deal, while Cambodia's Information Minister dismissed the claims as "fabricated" and "entirely false," stating no weapons were fired by their forces

The Tourism Minister recently met with the Cambodia's Honorary Consul in Bengaluru to discuss bilateral tourism and investment cooperation, including encouraging the establishment of direct flights between Siem Reap and Bengaluru. The Ministry has requested the Honorary Consulate to help counter misinformation by highlighting Cambodia’s political stability and safety to Indian citizens

According to Cambodia’s Commercial Gaming Management Commission, in 2025, Cambodia’s regulated gambling sector contributed over $72 million USD to government revenue, +14% YoY. By the end of 2025, the country hosted 195 licensed casinos, with the majority (160 venues) concentrated in Preah Sihanouk province. In H1 2025, NagaWorld operator reported a $148.8 million USD net profit, +16.8% YoY. Officials indicated that revenue from duties and fees is used to support tourism infrastructure and public services, though it remains only a portion of total national income

At the “Chinese New Year Event to Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Cambodia-China Mobile Film Tour", the Tourism Minister highlighted film tourism as a strategy for national destination development, and promotion. Over the last 10 years, a mobile screening truck has visited all 25 provinces, showing more than 300 films to over 100,000 viewers. The project is a collaboration between the China Media Group, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Phnom Penh Municipality

On 20 Feb, Siem Reap hosted its second annual kite festival at the former Siem Reap international airport, gathering 138 participants

On 19 Feb, the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh launched the Duta Rasa Nusantara (Ambassador of Indonesian Taste) certificate to recognise restaurants promoting authentic culinary heritage. There are currently 400 Indonesian eateries in Cambodia providing halal options. The inaugural award was presented to Resto Somatera, a Phnom Penh staple for 17 years known for mentoring local youth in traditional recipes

The 16th Giant Puppet Parade 2026 is set to take place in Siem Reap on 21 Feb, beginning at 6:30 pm from Wat Damnak. The event features over 600 children from various NGOs and local schools parading 8 massive, illuminated puppets. It is expected to draw more than 20,000 spectators, aiming to promote conservation and environmental awareness. Following the main event, the puppets will be exhibited at the Royal Residence Garden before being donated to local children's hospitals and sponsor sites

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Cambodia has officially relocated the 20th Francophonie Summit from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh to ensure optimal conditions for the event, which is scheduled for Nov 2026. In addition to high-level plenary sessions, the capital will host significant side events, including the "Village Francophone" cultural showcase and the "FrancoTech" innovation forum

According to a report from the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia, trade between Cambodia and India reached $43.12 million USD in Jan 2026, +40% YoY. Cambodia’s exports to India were valued at $16.16 million USD (+56.9% YoY). Meanwhile, imports from India totalled $26.96 million USD (+31.5% YoY). Provincial officials recently met with India’s Honorary Consul to promote Siem Reap as a premier destination for weddings, religious tourism, and wellness retreats. Beyond tourism, the partnership aims to attract high-value Indian investment into modern technology and agro-processing, while fostering human capital through new academic and technical exchange programmes

On 20 Feb, the Marshall Islands-flagged luxury cruise ship Seven Seas Explorer docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port. The ship carried over 1,200 people, comprising 730 tourists from 24 countries and nearly 550 crew members, with American nationals made up the largest group (over 500 passengers)

Preah Sihanouk province is hosting a 5-day Cultural, Tourism and Trade Fair from 22-26 Feb 2026 at Techo Stadium to showcase its local products and heritage. A key highlight is the "Run for Love" event, featuring 5km and 10km runs aimed at raising funds for Cambodian soldiers stationed at the Thai border

According to the Provincial Tourism Department, as of Feb 2026, 95% of Preah Sihanouk’s 560 tourism businesses are fully licensed. The province's tourism workforce has grown to 10,282 employees. The Director of the Preah Sihanouk Provincial Department of Tourism clarified that many of the unlicensed entities are either new startups that have yet to register or existing businesses with expired permits that have not been renewed. Additionally, some operators remain unlicensed because they are currently unable to categorise their business type or do not yet feel the need to apply. In 2025, the province welcomed 4,769,197 tourists, comprising 4,353,738 local tourists (+0.44% YoY), and 415,459 foreigners (+30.45% YoY). The President of Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA) said that to shed the region's "scam hub" reputation, Cambodia must rebrand Sihanoukville as a high-end destination by highlighting world-class beaches, improved infrastructure, and family-oriented tourism products

According to the Commercial Gambling Management Commission of Cambodia (CGMC), as of 2025, Cambodia was operating 160 legal casinos as of 2025, mostly in Preah Sihanouk province. The CGMC has issued a directive prohibiting casinos from hosting illegal activities, including online scams, human trafficking, and fraud operations. In 2025, the authority revoked licenses of 2 casinos

The Cambodian Prime Minister accused Thai forces of violating Cambodian sovereignty by occupying territory and installing military barriers beyond Thailand’s own unilateral claims. Speaking in Washington, D.C., he described the 817km border as "fragile" despite a recent ceasefire and urged Bangkok to activate the Joint Boundary Commission to resolve the dispute technically. While Thailand’s military denied the claims, the PM expressed hope that Donald Trump’s newly formed Board of Peace would help de-escalate the situation. Additionally, the Prime Minister confirmed a nationwide crackdown on cyber-scam centres and the drafting of new legislation to rehabilitate Cambodia’s international reputation

The Ministry of Economy and Finance has extended tax incentives for tourism businesses in Siem Reap through to the end of 2026. The policy applies to tax-registered hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and travel agencies operating specifically in Siem Reap province. Businesses are exempt from all monthly taxes (excluding VAT and accommodation tax) and annual income tax for 2026. Eligible enterprises will not face tax audits for the 2026 financial year. The President of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Cambodia chapter indicated the hope that the government will also consider Phnom Penh and the coastal provinces for this initiative

On 17 Feb, over 30,000 visitors flocked to Battambang province to celebrate the first day of the Lunar New Year. The Provincial Department of Tourism reported about 4,000 domestic tourists and 400 international travellers, and over 25,000 visitors who were day-trippers and returned home in the evening

On 16 Feb, Siem Reap formalised a strategic partnership with Amirakle Tour to attract high-spending Middle Eastern tourists and billionaire investors. By developing luxury-focused packages and bespoke VIP services, the province aims to create a direct corridor for Gulf capital to enter Cambodia’s hospitality and infrastructure sectors