Cambodia Celebrates Twenty-Seventh Anniversary of Win-Win Policy, Highlighting Tourism’s Role in the Economic Growth and Long-Term Stability

Published on December 30, 2025

It was on Monday that Huot Hak, who is the Minister of Tourism, and Mang Sineth, Governor of Preah Sihanouk province, presided over a special occasion on board the ‘Diamond Princess,’ a cruise that is currently docked in Preah Sihanouk. This is in commemoration of the 27th anniversary of Cambodia’s Win-Win Policy. It is worth noting that this occasion is also in celebration of Cambodia Peace Day 2025, in addition to the 7th anniversary of the Win-Win Monument.

Since its implementation, the Win-Win Policy, which was previously initiated by then-Prime Minister Hun Sen, has promoted political stability as well as unity within the country in preparation for socio-economic growth. Perhaps one of the most important positives that have come from political stability is that it has resulted in a stable tourist infrastructure that has become one of the primary bases in the country’s economy.

Tourism’s Key Role in Cambodia’s Socio-Economic Development

The policy’s success in achieving long-term peace has given Cambodia the opportunity to advance in multiple sectors, with tourism emerging as one of the most important. The peace and stability created by the Win-Win Policy have attracted international tourists and positioned Cambodia as a safe, thriving destination in Southeast Asia. Tourism revenue is becoming an increasingly important driver of economic growth, contributing to local businesses and creating jobs across the country.

Cambodia’s tourism infrastructure has flourished in recent years, with a growing number of visitors arriving to experience the country’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and unique tourist attractions. The government’s focus on tourism has helped improve airport facilities, transportation networks, and tourist services, making the country more accessible to visitors from around the globe. This focus on tourism development is expected to continue driving Cambodia’s growth in the coming years, as international travelers seek to explore the country’s historical landmarks, ancient temples, and idyllic beaches.

Sustainable Tourism: A Cornerstone of Cambodia’s Long-Term Growth

As part of the celebration, tourism officials emphasized how the Win-Win Policy’s emphasis on peace and stability has enabled Cambodia to position itself as a key player in the global tourism industry. Tourism is not only vital for economic growth but also plays a key role in the country’s sustainable development. Cambodia has made sustainability a core focus of its tourism strategy, ensuring that the economic benefits from tourism are shared with local communities and that the country’s environmental and cultural heritage is protected for future generations.

The shift toward sustainable tourism has been central to Cambodia’s development strategy, with initiatives focusing on eco-tourism, community-based tourism, and the preservation of the country’s natural landscapes and cultural traditions. This approach not only supports economic growth but also strengthens the resilience of local communities by involving them in tourism-related activities and ensuring that they directly benefit from the revenue generated by the sector.

The Growing Appeal of Cambodia as a Global Travel Destination

The peace achieved through the Win-Win Policy has created a favorable environment for Cambodia to strengthen its global tourism profile. The country’s continued success in attracting international tourists is a direct result of this stability. The tourism sector in Cambodia has become more diverse, with travelers coming for cultural experiences, beach vacations, adventure tourism, and heritage site visits.

The win-win policy has made Cambodia more appealing to tourists seeking destinations that offer both peace and stability, qualities that are increasingly valued by modern travelers. The rise in international arrivals has helped promote Cambodia as an emerging tourism powerhouse in Southeast Asia, drawing visitors from across the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia.

Tourism’s Economic Impact: A Sustainable Driver for Local Communities

The economic impact of tourism in Cambodia has been profound, particularly in regions that depend on tourism for their economic stability. Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most famous cultural landmarks, attracts millions of visitors annually, generating substantial revenue for the local economy. Similarly, Sihanoukville, Kampot, and Phnom Penh are seeing the rise of new hotels, restaurants, and tourist services that contribute to local employment and business growth.

As the tourism sector expands, it is creating a multiplier effect that benefits a wide range of industries, from hospitality and transportation to local handicrafts and food production. Cambodia’s efforts to promote tourism have led to the development of new tourist-friendly policies, such as visa facilitation and tourist infrastructure, which have made the country more welcoming to foreign visitors.

Prime Minister Hun Manet’s Vision: Strengthening Tourism for the Future

As Cambodia continues to grow its tourism sector, the role of Prime Minister Hun Manet in steering the country toward new opportunities for socio-economic development cannot be overstated. His leadership, supported by the foundation laid by the Win-Win Policy, will help guide the country toward further achievements in tourism, international collaboration, and economic prosperity.

Cambodia’s Bright Tourism Future

The commemoration of the 27th anniversary of the Win-Win Policy is a significant event that reminds people of the importance of tourism to the economic success of Cambodia. It should be noted that the lasting peace created by the win-win policy provides Cambodia with the stability that it needs to become an important tourist destination, hence boosting its economic success.

However, with Cambodia’s efforts to develop sustainable tourism and invest in its tourism infrastructure, its tourism industry will remain one of the important elements of its success and growth as a country. With the continuous leadership of the current Prime Minister, Hun Manet, Cambodia is set to achieve even greater success in the international tourism sector, to ensure the country remains a destination of interest to visitors who wish to experience a blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty.