Tourists increase from year to year from less than one million tourist in 2000 to more than one million at the present. It is expected to grow upto more than two million tourists beyond 2007. The main growed area is Angkor, Siem Reap, a province reported that is number two in the context of the poor provinces in Cambodia. Million of dollars flood into Cambodia, particularly in Siem Reap, but it growth does not reflect to the real life of people in Siem Reap and country as a whole. Thus it is a discussion with a topic: while toursim is growing, the growth does not much benefit the poor. Why??????
By Im Sokthy
Khmai said
Alot of tourist money are spent on hotels and local businesses such as restaurants and clubs. These money do not benefit the poor, because it goes directly away from the community and into rich tycoons and government officials. The money is not re-invested back into the community. In addition, businesses, especially big businesses do not get involve in helping the community. In the States, businesses, especially ones that provides the largest jobs are very active in the community. It is good to set up good public relations with the people. However, in Cambodia, I do not see many businesses willing to do so. Maybe a tax break will encourage them?
While tourism is booming, it is still small compare to neighboring Thailand. However, if and when Cambodia catches up, time will tell whether money will be funneled toward strengthening local communities and small businesses.