This National Ecotourism Policy 2019-2028 sets out a vision, objectives and sectoral goals for developing ecotourism while conserving natural resources, biodiversity and cultural heritage. The Vision is: to develop Cambodia into a quality and competitive ecotourism destination in the region and internationally, offering attractive experiences while contributing to poverty reduction, natural resource conservation, environmental protection and sustainable resource management. The Objectives include: Diversify tourism products by developing ecotourism alongside cultural tourism; Strengthen Cambodia’s position as an ecotourism destination linked to conservation; Improve the quality, safety and security of ecotourism products and services; Encourage private investment and development partner support, including financial assistance and community capacity building; Enable communities and local residents to participate in conservation and environmental protection, earn income and manage ecotourism activities; Improve governance of ecotourism management and development. Key measures include identifying and zoning priority ecotourism areas, preparing site development plans, establishing model destinations and assessing visitor carrying capacity. The Policy promotes investment incentives, financing mechanisms and partnerships, alongside infrastructure, accommodation, guide training and tourism services. It also provides for environmental management, waste control, renewable energy, eco-certification, market research, promotion, visitor safety and environmental education. Implementation provisions establish interministerial coordination, strengthen national and subnational institutions, build community and operator capacity, mobilize funding and develop supporting legislation and regulations. Monitoring and evaluation cover implementation progress, socioeconomic benefits, environmental impacts and service quality, with findings informing improvements to ecotourism management and development.
Cambodia · 2018-11-16