Cambodia’s culinary, hospitality, and tourism sectors have advanced significantly with the grand launch of CAMFOOD & CAMHOTEL 2025 at the Diamond Island Exhibition and Convention Centre (DIECC) on October 22. This prominent exhibition runs until October 24, welcoming over 250 exhibitors and over 6,000 trade professionals from across the globe.

With its world-class exhibitors, live competitions, and opportunities for knowledge exchange, this event enhances Cambodia’s presence in Southeast Asia’s hospitality and culinary scene.

The ceremony was attended by Cambodian Tourism Minister Huot Hak, Cambodia Chamber of Commerce Vice-President Oknha Lim Socheat, and Gerard Leeuwenburgh, Informa Markets’ Country General Manager for Malaysia and Cambodia.

An Inspiring Opening

Guests were treated to speeches highlighting Cambodia’s ambitions for growth, professionalism, and international collaboration.

In his statement, Huot proclaimed: “Tourism is one of the most dynamic pillars of Cambodia’s economy, and its strength relies on the skills, services, and innovation within our hospitality and food and beverage sectors. CAMFOOD & CAMHOTEL serves as a vital platform to showcase our capabilities, attract investments, and inspire excellence that aligns with Cambodia’s sustainable tourism vision.”

Leeuwenburgh noted: “CAMFOOD & CAMHOTEL transcends being merely an exhibition; it acts as a catalyst for growth, cultural exchange, and professional excellence, endorsed by the government to connect Cambodia’s rich culinary heritage with the global market, supporting the nation’s ambition to become a premier ASEAN hub for tourism and hospitality.”

Contributing to Cambodia’s Economy

Tourism accounted for approximately 9.4% of Cambodia’s GDP in 2024, with international visitor numbers swelling to around 6.7 million, a 22.9% rise from the previous year.
As Cambodia advances in the ASEAN tourism landscape, CAMFOOD & CAMHOTEL 2025 plays a pivotal role in driving growth and innovation.
The exhibition provides local enterprises access to international innovations in areas such as smart point-of-sale systems, energy-efficient kitchen equipment, and gourmet offerings, aimed at enhancing service standards and competitiveness.

As Oknha stated, “This exhibition showcases the strength and potential of Cambodian enterprises while fostering opportunities for global collaboration, demonstrating the Kingdom’s readiness to compete at regional and international levels in the hospitality and tourism sectors.”

Nurturing Local Talent

Moreover, CAMFOOD & CAMHOTEL 2025 is committed to nurturing talent development, celebrating Cambodia’s culinary heritage, and creating job pathways for youth. The event includes a variety of activities such as:

• Seminar Series, a three-day panel led by top chefs from the Cambodia Chefs Association (CCA).
• Heritage on a Plate, showcasing Cambodian cuisine to a global audience.
• Davinci Gourmet Barista Craft Championship 2025, featuring the region’s leading baristas.
• Wine Service Competition & Cocktail Demo 2025, presenting the art of professional wine service.
• The Tourism Career Fair 2025, connecting young Cambodians with career opportunities in hospitality.