Siem Reap Tourism: Professionals Demand More Marketing and Flights

• 47.9% drop. International arrivals to Cambodia reached 1.8 million in the first half of 2026, compared to 3.4 million a year earlier.
• Angkor in decline. Angkor ticket sales generated USD 20.3 million over seven months, a 29% decrease year-on-year.
• Mega sale launched. The Ministry of Tourism offers discounts of 10-50% on accommodation and services via the Cambodia Wonder platform, starting August 1, 2026.
• Discounts insufficient. Professionals believe that discount campaigns will not be enough to restore international demand.
• Key demands. Enhanced international marketing, better air connectivity, and airport fee waivers for airlines.

Reviving tourism in Siem Reap has become a priority in the face of a historic decline in arrivals. Here are the key steps.

1. January-June 2026: International arrivals fell by 47.9% compared to the same period in 2025, according to the National Bank of Cambodia.
2. Unfavorable context: The border conflict with Thailand, scandals related to online scams, and a decline in global demand are affecting the sector.
3. August 1, 2026: The Ministry of Tourism launches the "Siem Reap 2026 Tourism Services Mega Sale" with discounts of 10-50%.
4. August 6, 2026: Economic stakeholders, including former vice president of the Cambodia Tourism Federation, Peter Brongers, express reservations and call for more structural measures.
5. Next steps: The government is studying proposals such as extending promotions to attractions (Angkor Pass, Phnom Kulen, Tonlé Sap) and using tourist visa revenues to fund marketing.

The tourism decline affects different segments of the sector differently. Here is a numerical overview.

• Economic activity: Expats working in tourism (hotels, restaurants, agencies) see their revenue decline with fewer customers.
• Discount opportunities: Expats can take advantage of 10-50% discounts on hotels and services via Cambodia Wonder, ideal for local getaways.
• Employment: The tourism downturn could lead to staff reductions or temporary closures, affecting expatriate employees.
• Air connections: If airlines reduce flights, expats may have fewer travel options and higher prices.
• Local atmosphere: Fewer tourists mean quieter streets, but also reduced nightlife and events.

1. Step 1: Diversify your income if you depend on tourism, by offering services to expats or online.
2. Step 2: Take advantage of mega sale discounts to discover hotels and activities at lower cost, but check the terms.
3. Step 3: Stay informed about market developments via reliable sources like Cambodia Investment Review.
4. Step 4: If you travel, book early and compare flight options, as connectivity may be reduced.
5. Step 5: Participate in local events and support community initiatives to boost tourism.
6. Step 6: Keep a precautionary savings to weather slow periods.