Cambodia Seeks to Boost Russian Tourism and Investment Through New Partnerships

Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism announced that Tourism Minister Huot Hak met with representatives from JFT Jet and Lotus Group of Companies in Phnom Penh on January 21 to discuss strengthening cooperation aimed at attracting Russian tourists and investors.

The meeting was attended by JFT Jet CEO Kaek Khemarat and Lotus Group CEO and BRICS House Director Vladimir Paranshika. JFT Jet is a leading private aviation service provider in Cambodia, while Lotus Group plans to establish a BRICS House branch in the country to facilitate investment from Russia and other BRICS nations.

Discussions focused on the feasibility of launching direct flights between Russia and Cambodia, as well as improving visa facilitation for Russian tourists and investors. Paranshika highlighted Cambodia’s strong tourism appeal, including its UNESCO heritage sites, high-quality beaches, favorable natural environment, and welcoming social atmosphere.

Minister Huot Hak expressed support for promoting the Russian tourism market through public-private partnerships and offered recommendations to ensure sustainable project development. He also accepted an invitation to attend a major international tourism exhibition in Moscow to further promote Cambodia’s tourism potential.

According to the Ministry, Russian tourists are generally high-spending travelers who favor wellness tourism, spa services, luxury resorts, and longer stays. Their average stay ranges from five to seven days, with some extending their visits to one or two months, contributing positively to tourism revenue and related industries.

The Ministry believes that cooperation with JFT Jet and Lotus Group will help expand the number of Russian visitors and investors, supporting the long-term growth of Cambodia’s tourism sector and national economy.