Direct Flight from India to Cambodia Expected to Boost Trade and Tourism

In a significant development for bilateral relations, Cambodia and India are finalizing legal procedures to establish a direct flight betwee...

In a significant development for bilateral relations, Cambodia and India are finalizing legal procedures to establish a direct flight between the two nations. Cambodian Ambassador to India, Koy Kuong, disclosed this during a meeting with the Cambodia Onkha Association (COA) in Delhi, India, last week. The move aims to enhance cooperation on trade and investment.

The Royal Embassy of Cambodia, in collaboration with Indian authorities, is in the final stages of deliberation to launch direct flights, potentially in April or June. This initiative is poised to facilitate smoother travel and foster closer ties between the two countries.

The establishment of direct flights seeks to bolster tourism, with both countries witnessing a surge in visitor numbers in recent years. Cambodia welcomed over 68,000 Indian tourists in the past year alone, reflecting a remarkable increase of over 100%. This move is expected to further amplify tourism exchanges.

The India-Cambodia Joint Business Council, jointly launched by the Cambodia Oknha Association and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, signifies a concerted effort to enhance trade relations. The council aims to foster dialogue and cooperation within the private sectors of both nations.

Bilateral trade between Cambodia and India has been on a steady upward trajectory, reaching nearly $485.70 million in 2023, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores the potential for further economic collaboration through initiatives such as direct flights and trade agreements.

Sin Chansereyvutha, Under-Secretary of State and spokesman for the State Secretary of Civil Aviation, affirmed that local airlines in Cambodia have received accelerated approval for air procedures. However, final approvals from Indian authorities are awaited to initiate the direct flight operations.

Both countries are actively pursuing bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs) to deepen economic ties. Technical discussions are underway to lay the groundwork for these agreements, which are anticipated to unlock new opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration across various sectors.

The impending launch of direct flights between India and Cambodia signifies a significant milestone in bilateral relations. With a focus on enhancing trade, tourism, and investment, this initiative is poised to create mutually beneficial opportunities for both nations, further strengthening their longstanding ties.