Cambodia Country Report

Cambodia is a developing country in Southeast Asia bordered by Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and the Gulf of Thailand. It has one of the fastest growing economies in the region, driven by its manufacturing and tourism sectors, as well as foreign investment. Nonetheless, pervasive corruption and weak rule of law remain a major impediment to the country’s development. Cambodia has experienced prolonged peace and stability under the rule of Prime Minister Hun Sen and the Cambodian People's Party (CPP), but the regime has faced criticism for its expanding crackdown on dissent in recent years. The dissolution of the main opposition party in late 2017 has seen the country essentially become a one-party state, and the regime has continued to suppress dissenting voices since then, despite warnings from its international partners over potential sanctions.

Opportunistic street crime is the most likely threat to visitors. Infrastructure and services are generally reliable in the major urban centers but limited in rural areas. Cambodia is generally safe from earthquakes and storm systems, although heavy downpours can result in localized flash flooding. Landmines also pose a threat in the country's northwest border region with Thailand.

Opportunistic petty crime is the main threat to travelers. Civil and labor unrest occurs sporadically but is unlikely to target foreign visitors. Terrorism poses a negligible concern, while the country does not face any source of conflict.

There are no major safety concerns over air travel.

Road maintenance is sporadic in both urban and rural areas. Roads between major areas are adequate; however, roads leading to areas that are more rural are poor.

Electricity supply is low and tariff rates are high, whilst mobile network coverage and Internet connections are adequate.

The Sihanoukville Autonomous Port has gained international recognition due to its efficient and reliable services.

The threat of cybercrime is increasing as more people get connected to the Internet.

Cambodia's location means it is not regularly impacted by powerful typhoons, although weaker storm systems generated in the Gulf of Thailand and torrential downpours during the rainy season from May to November can cause disruptive flooding. Landmines continue to pose a considerable threat in rural areas, particularly in the northwest.

Mosquito-borne diseases pose the biggest threat to travelers, although the risk of contraction can be reduced should precautionary measures be observed. Vaccines before travel are also required, for example, for yellow fever. Medical care is minimal, and numerous unregistered pharmacies sell counterfeit drugs. Severe or complicated medical emergencies will likely require evacuation to another country for adequate treatment. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking.

The ruling Cambodian People’s Party further tightened its grip on power following the last general elections in July 2018, having used the court system to dissolve the main opposition party and leave it with no viable challengers. High levels of corruption and the weak rule of law are salient concerns for businesses those operating in the country, and there are no indicators that such conditions will improve in the short-to-medium term.