Xi Jinping Visits Cambodia Amid US-China Trade War
The visit marks a significant milestone in China-Cambodia relations, with a focus on strengthening trade ties, improving tourism services, and promoting regional cooperation. As Cambodia seeks to diversify its economy and attract more Chinese visitors, the country is poised to become a major player in the region's tourism industry.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, for a two-day visit to strengthen regional trade ties, as Cambodia seeks financial support from China amid the ongoing US-China trade war. Cambodia is hoping to negotiate a lower tariff rate of 49% imposed by the US, and China has invested heavily in the country, with billions of dollars in infrastructure projects.
During his visit, Xi Jinping attended a welcome ceremony held by Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, and met with Prime Minister Hun Manet and Senate President Hun Sen. Xi has urged Cambodia to oppose "hegemonism" and "protectionism", and Cambodia has changed its statements on Chinese engagement to 49% of total costs for the $1.7bn canal project. China's investment in Cambodia has played a "pivotal role" in the country's socioeconomic development, according to Prime Minister Hun Manet.
The visit also highlights the growing tourism industry in Cambodia, which has become a "hidden gem" destination for Chinese travelers. With a 67.6% year-on-year growth in Chinese tourist arrivals in the first two months of 2023, Cambodia is expecting to attract over 1 million Chinese visitor trips in 2025. The country is improving its tourism services, including better Chinese-language services, customized travel packages, and digital payment systems, to attract more Chinese visitors.
As China and Cambodia strengthen their trade ties, the visit is expected to have a positive impact on the region's economy. With China's reduced overseas investments amid domestic economic woes, Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet has praised China's role in the country's socioeconomic development, and the country is looking forward to continued cooperation with China.