Cambodia's tourism eyes 'vast potential' in China

 May 23, 2012
Source = e-Travel Blackboard: N.J

Cambodia’s tourism leaders say they have shifted their focus to China, a country that holds “vast potential” to build the local travel industry.

Tourism Minister Thong Khon told media the country’s new 2020 targets were pinned on successful growth from the China region with expectations to build Chinese tourists from 500,000 in 2015 to up to one million over the next eight years, TR Weekly reported.

Currently Cambodia’s third largest market after Vietnam and South Korea, Chinese tourists made up 39.2 percent of all international visitors into the country last year.

Mr Khon said to build the figure the ministry will focus on encouraging more direct flights between the two regions.

“We will also encourage owners of hotels, restaurants and tourism resorts to use three languages - Khmer, English and Chinese - in billboards, or promotional leaflets or brochures,” he told media.

“We believe the target is within reach because the country is politically stable and there is plenty of tourism potential. Diplomatic ties between Cambodia and China are excellent, too.”

The Tourism Minister added that the ministry would also continue to look towards airline and agencies to offer competitive prices to Chinese tourists and improve language efficiencies of tour guides and hospitality employees.