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Asked: June 1, 2026In: ,

A New Step Toward Financial Connectivity Cambodia and Rwanda have taken a significant step toward strengthening their financial ties with the launch of a new cross border payment cooperation initiative. Announced jointly by the National Bank of Cambodia ...Read more

A New Step Toward Financial Connectivity

Cambodia and Rwanda have taken a significant step toward strengthening their financial ties with the launch of a new cross border payment cooperation initiative. Announced jointly by the National Bank of Cambodia and the National Bank of Rwanda on Saturday, the partnership aims to make electronic payments easier, faster, and more efficient for people and businesses in both countries. The initiative reflects a growing commitment to digital innovation and financial modernization while supporting stronger economic and tourism links between the two nations.

Digital payment connections between Cambodia and Rwanda

The cooperation is designed to improve payment connectivity by leveraging modern technology and digital financial solutions. As countries around the world continue embracing cashless transactions, Cambodia and Rwanda are positioning themselves to benefit from greater financial integration, smoother cross border commerce, and improved access to digital payment services.

Building on an Existing Partnership

The new payment initiative is being implemented under a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two central banks in 2023. The agreement established a framework for cooperation in financial sector development and created opportunities for both institutions to share expertise, experiences, and best practices.

By building on this foundation, the two central banks are working together to accelerate innovation within their financial systems. The partnership demonstrates a long term commitment to enhancing financial infrastructure while supporting broader economic development goals in both countries.

Advancing Modern Payment Systems

According to the joint press release, “this cross-border payment cooperation demonstrates the shared commitment of both central banks to modernising their payment systems and promoting greater financial connectivity.”

The initiative highlights the importance of digital transformation in the financial sector. By improving interoperability and encouraging the use of electronic payment platforms, the project is expected to create more convenient transaction options for citizens, businesses, and travelers. Modern payment systems can reduce transaction barriers, increase efficiency, and help support economic activities across borders.

Strengthening Trade and Tourism Opportunities

Beyond financial technology, the cooperation is expected to bring broader economic benefits. The joint statement noted that the initiative could strengthen economic, trade, and tourism relations between Cambodia and Rwanda while contributing to wider regional and international financial integration.

As digital payment systems become more interconnected, businesses may find it easier to conduct transactions across borders, while travelers could enjoy more seamless payment experiences when visiting either country. Improved payment connectivity can also encourage greater commercial exchanges and support new investment opportunities.

Supporting Global Financial Integration

The partnership reflects a wider trend among central banks seeking to modernize financial ecosystems and improve international connectivity. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, Cambodia and Rwanda are taking practical steps toward creating more inclusive and efficient financial services.

The MoU framework also supports continued cooperation in areas related to financial sector development, allowing both countries to benefit from shared experiences and technological advancements. As digital economies continue to evolve, initiatives like this can play an important role in connecting markets and expanding economic opportunities.

Source: Khmer Times. For additional information, readers may refer to the original report published by Khmer Times.

Conclusion

The launch of the cross border payment cooperation between Cambodia and Rwanda marks an important milestone in the modernization of financial services in both countries. By combining technological innovation with institutional cooperation, the initiative aims to enhance digital payments, strengthen trade and tourism ties, and promote greater financial integration. As both nations continue advancing their digital economies, this partnership could serve as a model for future international payment collaborations.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: June 1, 2026In:

Cambodia has reached a significant milestone in its aviation journey as Techo International Airport was named among the world’s best new airport terminals in the prestigious Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026. The recognition places Cambodia alongside some of the ...Read more

Cambodia has reached a significant milestone in its aviation journey as Techo International Airport was named among the world’s best new airport terminals in the prestigious Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026. The recognition places Cambodia alongside some of the largest and most advanced aviation projects in Japan, China, the United States, and India. Announced in 2026, the award highlights the country’s efforts to modernize its transport infrastructure, strengthen international connectivity, and support long term tourism and economic growth. At the same time, Cambodia is also expanding partnerships to boost tourism and air travel, reinforcing its ambition to become a regional transportation and logistics hub.

Techo Airport award 2026

The recognition comes at a time when Cambodia is investing heavily in aviation development and international tourism promotion. Through world class airport infrastructure and stronger airline partnerships, the Kingdom is positioning itself to attract more visitors, investors, and business opportunities from around the globe.

Techo International Airport Joins the World’s Best

Techo International Airport earned its place on the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026 list for the world’s best new airport terminals. The category evaluates airport facilities that have opened within the previous 18 months and measures performance through extensive passenger surveys covering airport facilities, staff services, operational efficiency, and overall customer experience.

According to assessments published by Skytrax and highlighted by Condé Nast Traveller, the rankings recognize excellence across every aspect of airport operations. Being selected among only five airports worldwide demonstrates that Cambodia’s newest international gateway is already meeting global standards in passenger service and infrastructure quality.

A Modern Gateway for Cambodia

Located south of Phnom Penh, Techo International Airport officially began operations on September 9, 2025, replacing the capital’s aging airport as Cambodia’s main international gateway. The facility is classified as a 4F category airport, the highest international classification, allowing it to accommodate some of the world’s largest passenger aircraft, including the Airbus A380 800 and Boeing 747 800.

The first phase of development includes a four kilometre runway and modern passenger facilities capable of handling more than 15 million travelers annually. The airport was designed to support Cambodia’s growing tourism industry, increasing trade opportunities, and expanding international business connections.

Long Term Expansion Plans

Techo International Airport has been designed with future growth in mind. Under the second phase of development, a new runway will be added to increase annual passenger capacity to 30 million by 2030. The final phase, expected to be completed by 2050, will introduce a third runway and expanded facilities capable of serving up to 45 million passengers annually.

These ambitious plans reflect the government’s broader vision of transforming Cambodia into a leading transport and logistics hub in Southeast Asia. The project is expected to play a major role in supporting economic development, attracting foreign investment, and strengthening international trade networks.

Why the Recognition Matters?

Industry experts believe the airport represents one of Cambodia’s most important infrastructure investments in recent years. Improved air connectivity will make it easier for tourists, business travelers, and investors to access the Kingdom while enhancing Cambodia’s competitiveness within ASEAN.

While speaking to Khmer Times, Thourn Sinan, Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia Chapter, described the inclusion of the Kingdom in the list as “recognition of the country’s growing aviation and hospitality standards.”

“It will boost traveller confidence, especially for first-time visitors to Cambodia who want a smooth, reliable arrival experience,” he noted.

The recognition also sends a strong signal to the international community that Cambodia is prepared to meet the growing demand for global air travel in the decades ahead.

Global Competition and Recognition

Leading the Skytrax ranking this year was Japan’s Aso Kumamoto Airport, which gained international attention for its striking terminal designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. Other airports recognized in the category included Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Terminal 3 in China, San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 in the United States, and Navi Mumbai International Airport in India.

By appearing alongside these globally respected facilities, Cambodia has strengthened its position on the international aviation map and demonstrated its commitment to delivering world class infrastructure.

New Partnership to Strengthen Tourism

As Cambodia celebrates the airport’s global recognition, the country is also taking additional steps to expand tourism and international connectivity. The Cambodia Tourism Board and AirAsia Cambodia recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at attracting more international visitors and supporting tourism development.

The agreement was signed by AirAsia Cambodia Chief Executive Officer Nam Vissoth and representatives from the Cambodia Tourism Board, with the participation of Minister of Tourism Huot Hak and other senior officials.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hak described the agreement as an important step toward strengthening cooperation between the tourism and aviation sectors.

“This agreement combines destination marketing, improved connectivity and digital promotion to showcase Cambodia as a safe, stable and attractive destination with rich cultural heritage, outstanding historical assets, natural beauty, warm hospitality and diverse cuisine,” the minister said.

Aviation Continues to Drive Growth

According to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, Cambodia’s aviation sector handled 2.4 million passengers during the first four months of the year. While passenger traffic experienced a slight decline, flight movements increased by two percent and cargo volumes surged by 36 percent compared to the same period last year.

SSCA Secretary of State and spokesman Sinn Chanserey Vutha emphasized that aviation remains a critical driver of tourism, trade, and regional connections. The sector currently benefits from services provided by 33 airlines, including major international carriers such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Turkish Airlines.

These airlines provide valuable links between Cambodia and major destinations across Europe, North America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, helping position the Kingdom as an increasingly connected global destination.

Focus on Australia and India

The Tourism Ministry highlighted that Australia and India remain priority markets under the partnership between the Cambodia Tourism Board and AirAsia Cambodia. Through improved air connectivity, destination marketing, and digital promotion campaigns, the collaboration aims to attract more travelers from these rapidly growing outbound tourism markets.

As Cambodia continues investing in aviation infrastructure and international partnerships, the country is building a stronger foundation for tourism growth and long term economic development.

Conclusion

The inclusion of Techo International Airport among the world’s best new airport terminals marks a proud achievement for Cambodia and reflects the country’s growing reputation for quality infrastructure and hospitality. Combined with new initiatives to strengthen air connectivity and tourism promotion, the recognition demonstrates Cambodia’s determination to become a leading aviation and travel destination in Southeast Asia. As the airport continues to expand and international partnerships grow, the Kingdom is well positioned to welcome more visitors, attract investment, and drive economic progress for decades to come.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: May 29, 2026In:

Cambodia’s Ministry of Economy and Finance is stepping up efforts to make doing business easier by launching a new research study focused on improving business permitting and licensing procedures. The initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to ...Read more

Cambodia’s Ministry of Economy and Finance is stepping up efforts to make doing business easier by launching a new research study focused on improving business permitting and licensing procedures. The initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce administrative burdens, modernize digital public services, and create a more competitive business environment for both local companies and foreign investors.

Cambodia Pushes to Simplify Business Licensing

The study was officially launched on Wednesday with support from development partners and several government institutions. Officials say the project aims to identify practical challenges businesses face during registration and licensing processes, while also exploring ways to streamline procedures and reduce unnecessary delays.

Government and Development Partners Join Forces

The meeting was co chaired by Phan Phalla, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Economy and Finance and Secretary General of the General Secretariat of the Economic and Financial Policy Committee, alongside Kong Marry, Secretary General of the General Secretariat of the Digital Economy and Business Committee. Officials from both institutions finalized the scope and implementation timeline for “Phase I: Improving Business Permitting and Licensing Processes.”

The project is being carried out in cooperation with Sok Piseth, Head of the Special Working Group of Prime Minister Hun Manet, with technical support provided by the Cambodia Australia Partnership for Resilient Economic Development, widely known as CAPRED.

Representatives from the Australian Embassy in Cambodia, the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Cambodia, and the Alpha Desk Partner team also joined the discussion, highlighting growing collaboration between the public and private sectors in Cambodia’s digital transformation agenda.

Focus on Key Economic Sectors

According to the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the first phase of the study will focus on five priority sectors that are considered important drivers of Cambodia’s future economic growth. These sectors include agricultural product processing, food and beverage processing, agricultural inputs, electronics and electric vehicle industries, and tourism.

MEF deliberates on improving business permitting processes

Officials believe simplifying licensing procedures in these sectors can help businesses operate more efficiently while also encouraging greater domestic and international investment. The ministry stated that the research will examine the real experiences of companies dealing with permits and licenses in order to better understand where reforms are most urgently needed.

The study specifically aims to address overlapping requirements, duplicated paperwork, procedural redundancies, and regulatory bottlenecks that often slow down business operations and increase costs for investors.

Cambodia Expands Digital Public Services

Cambodia has accelerated its digital governance reforms in recent years as technology becomes increasingly important for economic development. The government’s Strategy for the Development of E Service for Business 2025 to 2028 outlines plans to modernize public service delivery and improve efficiency for businesses operating in the country.

One major achievement has been the Online Business Registration system, also known as the Single Portal. The platform was introduced to simplify company registration by reducing repetitive procedures, lowering costs, and saving time for entrepreneurs.

Official figures show that the Online Business Registration platform had registered 53,422 businesses with combined capital of $21.39 billion as of 2025. The digital platform is widely viewed as an important step toward improving Cambodia’s investment climate and strengthening transparency in government services.

New Reforms Aim to Attract More Investment

The Ministry of Commerce recently announced additional reforms designed to further streamline company registration and reduce administrative burdens. These efforts are part of Cambodia’s wider plan to strengthen digital governance, improve efficiency, and attract more foreign direct investment into the country.

Business leaders and policymakers believe that modernized licensing systems and faster digital services will help Cambodia become more competitive within the region, especially as neighboring countries continue expanding their own investment and digital infrastructure.

By reducing bureaucracy and improving coordination between ministries, Cambodia hopes to create a more resilient and transparent business ecosystem capable of supporting long term economic growth.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s latest effort to improve business permitting and licensing reflects the government’s growing focus on digital transformation and economic competitiveness. Through closer cooperation between government agencies, development partners, and the private sector, the country is working to remove long standing administrative obstacles that affect businesses and investors. If successful, the reforms could strengthen investor confidence, improve public services, and position Cambodia as a more attractive destination for regional and international investment.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: May 28, 2026In: ,

China’s WeChat Pay to Accept PayPal in Tourist-Friendly Push Chinese technology giant Tencent has announced that users of PayPal will soon be able to make cashless payments across China through the vast merchant network of WeChat Pay, also ...Read more

China’s WeChat Pay to Accept PayPal in Tourist-Friendly Push

Chinese technology giant Tencent has announced that users of PayPal will soon be able to make cashless payments across China through the vast merchant network of WeChat Pay, also known as Weixin Pay.

The move is designed to make spending easier for foreign visitors traveling in China, where QR-code payments have become the dominant method of payment for everything from restaurants and taxis to shopping malls and convenience stores.

Initially, the feature will be available to U.S.-based PayPal users, with Tencent planning to expand access to more countries later.

The development reflects China’s broader strategy to attract more international tourists and improve digital payment accessibility for foreigners. According to official figures, tourism contributed more than 4% of China’s economy in 2024, while international arrivals surged to more than 35 million visitors last year.

Economists say the partnership also reflects a growing global trend toward cross-border QR payment interoperability, allowing users from different payment ecosystems to transact more seamlessly across countries.

Why This Matters for Cambodia and Bakong

The Tencent-PayPal collaboration is also raising important questions about the future of Cambodia’s own digital payment ecosystem, especially the potential of integrating Cambodia’s Bakong system with PayPal.

Tencent Opens Door for PayPal Payments in China Why Bakong Integration Could Be a Game Changer for Cambodia

National Bank of Cambodia launched Bakong as a blockchain-based payment infrastructure to modernize Cambodia’s financial system and expand digital payments nationwide. Today, Bakong already supports QR payments across banks and e-wallets throughout the country.

If Bakong were fully integrated with PayPal in the future, the impact on Cambodia’s digital economy could be significant.

Such integration could allow Cambodian businesses, freelancers, online sellers, and entrepreneurs to receive international payments directly through Bakong-linked accounts using PayPal’s global network.

This would create new opportunities for small businesses that currently struggle with limited access to global payment systems.

Boosting Cambodian E-Commerce Globally

For Cambodia’s growing e-commerce sector, a Bakong-PayPal connection could remove one of the biggest barriers facing local entrepreneurs: receiving international payments easily and affordably.

Many Cambodian online businesses already sell products through social media platforms, independent websites, and global marketplaces. However, payment collection from overseas customers often remains difficult due to banking limitations, high transfer fees, or lack of international payment support.

With PayPal integration, Cambodian entrepreneurs could potentially:

Receive Payments From Global Customers More Easily

Businesses selling Cambodian products such as fashion, handicrafts, digital services, artwork, agricultural products, and tourism services could accept payments from millions of PayPal users worldwide.

This would make Cambodian businesses more competitive in international markets.

Expand Freelance and Digital Service Opportunities

Freelancers, designers, developers, writers, marketers, and creators in Cambodia could receive payments from international clients faster through Bakong-linked digital wallets or bank accounts.

As Cambodia’s digital workforce grows, easier access to global payments could help more young Cambodians participate in the international gig economy.

Reduce Transaction Costs

Traditional international bank transfers can be slow and expensive for small businesses.

A Bakong-PayPal integration could help lower transaction costs while improving transaction speed, especially for SMEs and startups handling smaller payments frequently.

Support Tourism and Foreign Visitors

Just as China is making payments easier for tourists through WeChat Pay and PayPal, Cambodia could benefit from allowing foreign travelers to use familiar international payment platforms connected to Bakong QR systems.

Tourists could scan Bakong KHQR codes using international wallets or PayPal-linked services, helping businesses receive payments more conveniently without relying heavily on cash.

A Bigger Opportunity for Cambodia’s Digital Economy

Cambodia has been pushing aggressively toward becoming a more digital economy, with KHQR already gaining strong adoption across the country.

Integrating Bakong with major international payment platforms like PayPal could further position Cambodia as a more connected digital commerce hub in Southeast Asia.

For startups and online entrepreneurs, easier cross-border payments could unlock access to global customers, international partnerships, and new export opportunities.

As global QR payment interoperability continues to expand across Asia, experts believe Cambodia has an opportunity to move beyond domestic digital payments and become part of a broader international fintech ecosystem.

The Tencent-PayPal partnership may therefore offer more than just convenience for tourists in China — it may also provide a glimpse into what the future of cross-border digital commerce could look like for Cambodia.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: May 28, 2026In:

In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, First Lady Dr Pich Chanmony officially launched the “10,000 Riel, 10,000 People” Campaign 2026 while meeting with members of the Cambodia Kantha Bopha Foundation’s support committee and private sector donors who continue contributing to the ...Read more

In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, First Lady Dr Pich Chanmony officially launched the “10,000 Riel, 10,000 People” Campaign 2026 while meeting with members of the Cambodia Kantha Bopha Foundation’s support committee and private sector donors who continue contributing to the foundation’s humanitarian mission. The campaign aims to encourage nationwide participation in supporting Kantha Bopha Hospitals, which provide free healthcare services to mothers and children across the country.

First Lady Launches ‘10,000 Riel, 10,000 People’ Campaign

During the ceremony, Dr Chanmony, who serves as the Honorary President of the Cambodia Kantha Bopha Foundation, conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Hun Manet to all guests and participants attending the event. She also expressed sincere gratitude to ministries, institutions, development partners, private companies, and Cambodian citizens for their ongoing support through both financial donations and volunteer contributions.

National Unity Through Charity

In her remarks, Dr Chanmony highlighted the strong spirit of solidarity among Cambodian people, noting that public participation in the campaign reflects a culture of compassion and mutual support. She stated that “regardless of time or place, Cambodians always care for and help one another.”

The campaign was launched in celebration of International Children’s Day and aims to inspire charitable activities across all sectors of society. Students, civil servants, private institutions, and Cambodian communities living both inside and outside the country are being encouraged to take part in supporting the foundation’s work.

Organisers believe the campaign represents more than fundraising alone. It also serves as a national movement promoting the spirit of “Khmer helping Khmer” while strengthening social responsibility throughout the country.

Supporting Cambodia’s Children and Families

This year’s campaign carries the theme: “No matter the circumstances, Cambodians continue to help Cambodians.”

Dr Chanmony expressed hope that the “10,000 Riel, 10,000 People” initiative would become one of Cambodia’s major annual national events. She said wider public participation would help ensure the long term sustainability of Kantha Bopha Hospitals, which continue providing high quality healthcare services free of charge and without discrimination.

The hospitals play a critical role in caring for mothers, infants, and children, especially those from poor and vulnerable families who rely heavily on accessible medical treatment. Through continued donations and public support, the foundation hopes to maintain and expand these essential healthcare services for future generations.

Growing Public and Private Sector Support

The launch event also highlighted the growing partnership between the Cambodia Kantha Bopha Foundation and the private sector. Businesses and development partners continue to contribute resources and financial assistance to strengthen Cambodia’s healthcare system and support child welfare programs.

Many supporters view the campaign as a meaningful opportunity for individuals and organisations to contribute directly to improving healthcare access for children across the country. Organisers are optimistic that stronger public awareness and participation will help the campaign grow significantly in the coming years.

Conclusion

The launch of the “10,000 Riel, 10,000 People” Campaign 2026 reflects Cambodia’s continuing commitment to supporting vulnerable children and families through collective action and national solidarity. Led by First Lady Dr Pich Chanmony, the initiative encourages people from all walks of life to contribute toward the sustainability of Kantha Bopha Hospitals and ensure free healthcare remains available for future generations. As the campaign expands nationwide, it also reinforces the enduring spirit of compassion and unity among Cambodians.

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