Cambodia Plans to Overhaul Tourism Board: Aims to Boost Tourism Industry
On December 18, 2023, the Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism conducted a pivotal meeting with private tourism sector representatives. The gathering aimed to discuss the transformation of the Tourism Marketing and Promotion Board (TMPB) to the Cambodia Tourism Board (CTB), a move to bolster the effectiveness of the nation’s hospitality and tourism industry.
Unifying Stakeholders Towards a Common Goal
Several stakeholders, including the Cambodian Chefs Federation, Pacific Asia Tourism Association, Cambodia Association of Travel Agents, Cambodian Restaurant Association, and the Cambodian Hotel Association, attended the meeting. The objective: to reach a consensus on a draft sub-decree that seeks to place Cambodia as a competitive, sustainable, and inclusive tourism destination.
Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships
Minister Sok Soken emphasized the significance of collaboration with the private sector. He also affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the CTB’s initiatives, aligning them with the country’s tourism development goals. These initiatives and concerted efforts align with seventh mandate’s vision under Prime Minister Hun Manet.
Private Sector’s Full Support
Thourn Sinan, chairman of the PATA Cambodia Chapter, expressed the private sector’s unanimous support for the government’s plans. The TMPB, established in 2019, includes members from the tourism ministry, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), CATA, PATA, and Cambodia Angkor Air. It is now considering various proposals to enhance not just tourism, but also the country’s international appeal.