Tourism in Cambodia: 50% Drop in Seven Months

tourisme

Updated 2026-09-03 5 min

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In short

●Foreign tourist arrivals in Cambodia have dropped nearly 50% in the first seven months of the year.
●The decline is attributed to the global economic crisis and rising energy prices.
●Siem Reap, dependent on tourism, is particularly affected, impacting expatriates in the sector.
●Local professionals hope for a gradual recovery with adapted offerings and market diversification.

-50%

Decline in arrivals

January to July 2026

Period

Cambodia, especially Siem Reap

Location(s)

Phnom Penh Post

Source

50% drop. The number of foreign tourists decreased by nearly half between January and July 2026.
Identified causes. Global economic crisis and rising energy prices, according to the president of the tourism association.
Direct impact on Siem Reap. The city, dependent on tourism, sees its activity slow significantly.
Consequences for expats. Many expatriates working in hospitality and tourism are affected.
Outlook. Local stakeholders are seeking to diversify markets and adapt for a gradual recovery.

The tourism decline is part of a difficult global context marked by economic and energy tensions. Here are the key steps in this evolution.

Early 2026: The first signs of slowdown appear, with a decrease in international bookings.
March 2026: Rising energy prices begin to weigh on flight and stay costs.
May 2026: Arrivals drop significantly, with airlines reducing certain routes.
July 2026: The half-year report confirms a drop of nearly 50% compared to the previous year.
September 2026: The president of the tourism association speaks publicly, calling for adaptation in the sector.
End of 2026 (planned): Promotional campaigns and diversification towards Asian markets are considered to kickstart recovery.

The decline mainly affects long-haul markets, but also some regional markets. Here is an indicative breakdown by traveler type.

Segment	Figure	Detail
European tourists	-60%	Heavily affected by the economic crisis and flight costs.
American tourists	-55%	Decline linked to rising airfare prices.
Asian tourists (excluding China)	-40%	Regional market in decline, but less pronounced.
Chinese tourists	-45%	Slow recovery, impacted by restrictions and the economy.
Business travelers	-35%	Reduction in business travel due to the economic climate.

Reduced working hours or temporary layoffs in hotels and restaurants, affecting many expatriates.
Decrease in tips and variable income for tourism sector staff.
Temporary closure of some establishments, leading to reduced job opportunities.
Increased competition among professionals to attract the few tourists.
Need for expatriates to diversify skills or seek supplementary income.

Step 1: Update your resume and develop transferable skills (digital marketing, management, languages).
Step 2: Diversify your income sources: offer online services, consulting, or private lessons.
Step 3: Reduce fixed expenses and build an emergency fund of at least three months.
Step 4: Stay informed about market developments through local associations and expat networks.
Step 5: Explore growing sectors like online teaching, remote work, or services for locals.
Step 6: Consider temporary retraining in sectors less dependent on tourism (tech, agriculture, NGOs).
Step 7: Keep an active network: attend professional events and maintain contact with former colleagues.

How significant is the tourism decline in Cambodia?

The number of foreign tourists dropped nearly 50% in the first seven months of 2026 compared to the same period the previous year.

What are the main causes of this decline?

The global economic crisis and rising energy prices are the main reasons cited, making travel more expensive and less accessible.

How does this affect expatriates in Siem Reap?

Many expatriates work in tourism and hospitality; they face reduced hours, lower income, and sometimes job loss.

What measures are being considered to revive tourism?

Local stakeholders are considering promotional campaigns, diversification towards Asian markets, and adapting offerings to attract new segments.

What can expatriates do to cope with this situation?

It is advisable to diversify skills, seek supplementary income, reduce expenses, and stay informed about market developments.

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Published by

Siem Reap Hub

The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia