Cambodia’s Perceptions of China

Abstract

Cambodia has been portrayed as the most pro-China country in Southeast Asia. We argue that such views oversimplify and overgeneralize Cambodia’s agency and its perception of China. Acknowledging the multifaceted nature of Cambodians’ perceptions of China, we examined these perceptions using data from our extensive survey in the capital city and 11 provinces. We identify several key factors influencing these perceptions, which vary significantly across regions and groups. The data indicate a multifaceted and evolving relationship between Cambodia and China. While Cambodia’s economic growth and Chinese investments have strengthened ties between the two nations, it is crucial to recognize the diversity of perceptions among Cambodians. Policymakers and stakeholders in both Cambodia and China should consider these nuances to foster mutually beneficial partnerships.