The past decade has witnessed an unprecedented and massive influx of Chinese investments and tourism into Cambodia. The capital inflow and rising visitor numbers have been both beneficial and disruptive for Cambodia's economic development and social cohesion. Chinese investments have impacted Cambodia's domestic politics and foreign policy in ways that have facilitated the country's drift toward autocratic rule. They also appear to be leading to far-reaching environmental and sociocultural changes. The experience offers valuable lessons for other countries in Southeast Asia, and highlights an urgent dilemma for the government and society alike.
