Phnom Penh, December 26, 2025 — Cambodia has taken a major step toward deeper global aviation integration after the National Assembly officially approved the draft law ratifying the ASEAN-EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement (AE CATA) on December 25, 2025.
The approval marks a historic milestone for Cambodia’s aviation sector and positions the country to benefit from the world’s first region-to-region air transport agreement, linking 10 ASEAN member states with all 27 European Union countries under a single legal framework.
A Landmark Agreement for Cambodia
The ASEAN-EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement (AE CATA) liberalizes air services between Southeast Asia and Europe, replacing more than 140 bilateral aviation agreements with one comprehensive and modern regime.
With the National Assembly’s approval, Cambodia moves closer to full implementation of the agreement, which allows:
- Greater market access for passenger and cargo airlines
- Increased flight frequencies between ASEAN and EU destinations
- Expanded opportunities for direct and connecting routes
- Stronger cooperation on aviation safety, competition, and sustainability
A senior official from Cambodia’s civil aviation sector welcomed the decision, stating:
“The ratification of AE CATA demonstrates Cambodia’s commitment to open skies and international aviation standards. This agreement will significantly enhance Cambodia’s connectivity with Europe and support long-term economic growth.”
Boosting Tourism from Europe
Europe remains one of Cambodia’s most valuable tourism markets, known for longer stays and higher average spending per visitor. Improved air connectivity under AE CATA is expected to make travel to Cambodia more convenient and competitive.
According to tourism industry analysts, Cambodia could see:
- A 10–20% increase in European visitor arrivals within 2–3 years of full implementation
- Higher demand for cultural, heritage, and eco-tourism experiences
- Stronger recovery and growth in luxury, river cruise, and long-haul travel segments
A representative from the tourism sector commented:
“Direct and more frequent air services from Europe would be a game-changer for Cambodia’s tourism industry. AE CATA opens the door for new routes that were previously not commercially viable.”
Economic and Trade Impact
Beyond tourism, AE CATA is expected to generate broader economic benefits for Cambodia:
📦 Trade and Cargo
- Unlimited cargo rights will support exports such as garments, agricultural products, and light manufacturing
- Faster and more reliable air freight links to European markets
💼 Investment and Business Travel
- Improved connectivity makes Cambodia more attractive to European investors
- Easier travel for business executives, technical experts, and development partners
👷 Job Creation
- Growth in aviation, logistics, hospitality, and related services
- Increased demand for skilled aviation professionals and tourism workers
Economists estimate that improved air connectivity could contribute hundreds of millions of dollars in indirect economic activity over the next decade through tourism receipts, trade flows, and foreign investment.
Strengthening Cambodia’s Aviation Standards
AE CATA also emphasizes cooperation in:
- Aviation safety and security
- Air traffic management
- Consumer protection
- Environmental and social responsibility
These provisions are expected to help Cambodia further align its aviation sector with international best practices, improving confidence among airlines, passengers, and investors.
What Comes Next?
Following the National Assembly’s approval, the ratification process will proceed through the remaining legal and administrative steps. Once fully in force, Cambodian airlines and European carriers will be able to operate under the agreement’s expanded rights.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation is expected to work closely with airlines, airports, and tourism stakeholders to maximize the benefits of the agreement.
A Strategic Win for Cambodia
The approval of AE CATA on December 25, 2025 represents more than a legal milestone — it signals Cambodia’s readiness to play a stronger role in regional and global aviation.
As air travel between ASEAN and Europe continues to grow, Cambodia is now better positioned to attract tourists, facilitate trade, and connect its economy to one of the world’s largest markets.