PHNOM PENH: The recent agreement between Cambodia and Vietnam to launch a new direct flight from Hanoi to Siem Reap has sparked excitement among tourism and business experts, who believe it will significantly boost both sectors.

Mr. Lor Vichet, Vice President of the Cambodia-Chinese Commerce Association (CCCA) and an investment expert in Cambodia, commented: “The new Hanoi-Siem Reap flight will make it much easier for Vietnamese travelers and merchants to visit Cambodia's ancient temples and explore trade opportunities.”

He further highlighted the potential for Vietnamese investors to utilize Cambodia as an alternative manufacturing hub before the country graduates from its least developed country status.

Mr. Vichet also noted the growing sophistication of the Vietnamese economy, transitioning from basic manufacturing to high-value supply chains. He encouraged Vietnamese investors to explore Cambodia's potential as a strategic base to maximize their export potential.

According to a report from the Ministry of Tourism, in the first 10 months of 2023, Cambodia welcomed over 95,000 Vietnamese tourists, a 68.90% increase compared to the same period in 2022. This trend is expected to accelerate with the direct flights in place.

The new air link coincides with the 56th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Vietnam, further strengthening the ties between the two nations. Tourism and trade are expected to be key drivers of this continued collaboration in the years to come.

The direct flights between Hanoi and Siem Reap hold immense potential for both Cambodia and Vietnam, with experts predicting a surge in tourism and a blossoming of trade opportunities. With Cambodia's cultural richness and Vietnam's economic prowess, this collaboration presents an exciting prospect for regional growth and prosperity.