Resilient Routes Cambodia

Tourism serves as the backbone of Cambodia’s economy, yet the sector faces steep hurdles in the wake of global disruption. While international arrivals surged to 6.7 million in 2024—a 1.4% increase over the 2019 pre-pandemic peak—tourism’s contribution to GDP remains at 9.4%, trailing the 12.1% recorded in 2019 (International Trade Administration, 2025). Local MSMEs, which represent 99.7% of all businesses, struggle with low digital adoption and significant barriers to formalisation (Nay et al., 2026). Small operators often remain confined to the shadow of Angkor Wat, lacking the resources to diversify their offerings while global economic shifts lead to lower-spending visitors. Without immediate intervention, these businesses risk falling behind as regional competitors modernise their tourism landscapes.

Bridging this gap requires a strategic shift toward digital competitiveness and sustainable operational practices. The programme introduces intensive accelerator cycles designed to integrate modern business tools into traditional tourism services. By focusing on technical assistance and knowledge creation, the project builds a robust bridge between local ambition and international standards. This approach ensures that entrepreneurs can adapt to evolving market demands while maintaining their unique cultural identities.

Individual success stories ignite a wider movement towards a self-sufficient and resilient tourism value chain. Advanced businesses receive one-on-one coaching to unlock capital investments, ensuring they have the fuel to scale. Meanwhile, sustainable tourism bootcamps empower youth influencers and community leaders to champion new destinations beyond the temples. These collective wins foster local ownership, transforming Cambodia into a premier destination for conscious travellers seeking authentic experiences.