Tourism cornerstone of national economy, Hak says

Tourism cornerstone of national economy, Hak says

The unique cultural heritage of Cambodia is not only attracting tourists from far and wide but also driving continuous national economic growth, said Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism on Saturday.

Addressing the Cambodia-Korea Art Exhibition (February 20-25) in Siem Reap province, Hak said the exhibition is aimed at promoting Cambodia’s world heritage sites, highlighting the incredible beauty of ancient temples and the remarkable works of Cambodian ancestors, while also presenting Korean culture on the international stage.

“Cambodia’s tangible and intangible culture is not only drawing tourism but also serving as a cornerstone of the nation’s economy. Works of art are displayed this time is the heart of the best artistic skills and cultural heritage. Cultural exchange represents the truest form of human connection, fostering unity and understanding among people,” Hak emphasised.

According to the press release of the Royal Embassy of Cambodia to the Republic of Korea the art exhibition was jointly organized by the Embassy and the Republic of Korea, in partnership with the Korean Culture Association (KCA).

The project will feature an art exhibition, photo and video shooting, and a charity donation aimed at strengthening cultural ties and supporting local communities.

Prak Sophorn, Governor of Siem Reap province, said at the exhibition has formed friendship ties with three provinces and cities of the Republic of Korea including Suwon city of Gyeonggi province, Jeollanam-do province, and Gangwon province.

“Through its partnerships with these sister provinces and cities, Siem Reap has achieved significant cooperation in areas such as culture, society, agriculture, education, tourism, health, and trade.

These successes are the result of the strong bonds, mutual respect, and excellent cooperation between Siem Reap and its Korean counterparts,” said Sophorn.

Tourism acts as a powerful engine of economic growth by generating revenue, creating jobs, stimulating businesses, and promoting sustainable development.

Speaking to Khmer Times, Chey Tech, a socio-economic researcher, said that as everyone knows, there are three key sectors that drive national economic growth such as industry, services, and agriculture. Within the service sector, tourism plays a crucial role in contributing to the growth of the national economy.

“Tourism contributes to sustained national economic growth in several ways including job creation, boosting local businesses—from small vendors to large hotels and restaurants—and providing more economic opportunities for entrepreneurs. It also fosters infrastructure development, promotes cultural heritage, and helps diversify the economy,” he added.

Tech emphasised that tourism sector is a sustainable smoke-free economy and the tourism sector also contributes significantly to Cambodia’s gross domestic product (GDP), with up to 9.4 percent of GDP coming from this sector.

Regarding tourism, Hak met with over 200 tour guides in Siem Reap province on Friday and discussed their challenges and suggestions, aiming to find solutions through a ‘win-win strategy’.

He said that the progress of the tourism sector relies on key pillars of cooperation, including collaboration with inter-ministerial bodies, national institutions, and international organizations, as tourism is a sector that intersects with all industries.

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