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Asked: December 19, 2025In:

Digital Startups Spotlight Cambodia’s Evolving Digital Economy A new wave of technology driven startups emerged as a major highlight at the Digital Government Forum 2025, demonstrating how innovation is actively transforming Cambodia’s financial services, media landscape, transport systems, and ...Read more

Digital Startups Spotlight Cambodia’s Evolving Digital Economy

A new wave of technology driven startups emerged as a major highlight at the Digital Government Forum 2025, demonstrating how innovation is actively transforming Cambodia’s financial services, media landscape, transport systems, and property management sector. The forum revealed a growing maturity within the country’s startup ecosystem, where entrepreneurs are no longer experimenting but delivering practical digital solutions designed to solve real world challenges. These young companies showcased how smart use of technology can improve efficiency, transparency, and access across key industries that directly affect businesses and everyday citizens.

Digital Government Forum 2025-What You Need to Know
Digital Government Forum 2025-What You Need to Know. Photo: B2B Cambodia

A National Platform for Digital Governance and Innovation

Organised by the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications, the Digital Government Forum 2025 took place from December 5 to 7 and served as a central meeting point for policymakers, private sector leaders, and technology entrepreneurs. The event focused on digital governance, connectivity, and innovation, offering startups a rare opportunity to present their ideas alongside established institutions. Within the Digital Startup showcase space, founders engaged directly with stakeholders, highlighting how their solutions align with Cambodia’s broader digital transformation goals and economic development priorities.

Connecting Traditional Banking with Blockchain Finance

Blockchain finance startup Monflo presented a vision of bridging conventional banking systems with decentralised finance to enhance transparency and efficiency. Founder and CEO Chhay Lin Lim explained that blockchain offers greater financial autonomy, especially for cross border transactions that are often slow and costly through traditional channels. Monflo enables users to transfer funds between standard bank accounts and blockchain finance using an International Bank Account Number, automatically converting deposits into stablecoins backed by the euro, US dollar, or Khmer riel for fast and affordable global transfers. “Blockchain technology makes money more transparent and verifiable,” Chhay Lin said, while also pointing out that regulators in Europe, the United States, Japan, and Hong Kong are increasingly accepting stablecoins, urging Cambodia to consider similar frameworks to remain competitive.

Simplifying Financial Choices Through AI Integration

FinLuy addressed one of Cambodia’s most persistent financial challenges which is fragmentation across nearly 150 financial institutions. Founder and CEO Niraj Gupta highlighted the absence of a single platform where consumers can easily compare financial products and make informed decisions. FinLuy aggregates services from banks and microfinance institutions into one AI powered platform, allowing users to compare offerings, learn about financial products, and apply directly. By using AI driven recommendations, the platform matches users with products suited to their specific needs. “Our goal is to bring transparency and fair access to financial products for everyone in Cambodia,” said Gupta.

Fighting Misinformation for a Digital Generation
Media startup Quick News positioned itself as a solution to misinformation among young audiences who primarily consume news through social media. Founder Sun Ratanak explained that the platform blends short video formats popular on TikTok and Instagram with content from trusted media outlets and verified creators. “What makes us different is that only trusted content creators and news organisations can publish on our platform,” he said. Beyond credibility, Quick News also focuses on sustainable journalism by sharing 40 per cent of its revenue with content creators, a significantly higher return than mainstream platforms. “If you want to reach Gen Z with factual content and earn fairly, QuickNews is the right platform,” Sun added.

Redefining Storytelling Through Personalised Digital Reading

Echo Weaver introduced a new approach to digital reading by offering personalised stories that evolve based on individual user preferences. Co founded by Seng Vosumtey, the platform allows readers to input ideas, characters, or themes and receive stories delivered chapter by chapter. Unlike traditional books or generic AI tools, Echo Weaver adapts over time as user interests change, creating a dynamic and immersive experience. “The story grows with you,” Seng explained. “It remembers your preferences and adapts as you change.”

Smart Platforms for Transport and Property Management

In the transport sector, TapApp demonstrated how digital platforms can simplify long distance travel across Cambodia. Representative Kim Tipvireak Rith explained that the service offers taxi bookings across all 25 provinces, selected cross border routes, car rentals, moving services, and pet friendly taxis supported by 24 hour customer service. The platform’s impact was underscored by receiving TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award in both 2024 and 2025. In property management, Zoneer showcased tools designed to reduce manual workloads for landlords. Representative Seanghort Born explained that the platform automates utility tracking, invoice generation, and data collection, making it easier to manage rooms, apartments, and condominiums efficiently.

Conclusion

The Digital Government Forum 2025 highlighted the growing momentum of Cambodia’s innovation ecosystem, where startups are increasingly delivering solutions that respond to everyday needs across finance, media, transport, and property. These emerging companies reflect a broader shift toward practical digital adoption, positioning Cambodia to strengthen efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness as it continues its journey toward a digitally enabled economy.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: December 19, 2025In: ,

Official Launch of Cambodia–Laos Cross Border QR Payments Marks a New Digital Milestone ACLEDA Bank Plc. has officially announced the launch of Cross Border Payment via QR Code in Cambodia under Phase II Laos Scans KHQR Code marking a ...Read more

Official Launch of Cambodia–Laos Cross Border QR Payments Marks a New Digital Milestone

ACLEDA Bank Plc. has officially announced the launch of Cross Border Payment via QR Code in Cambodia under Phase II Laos Scans KHQR Code marking a significant step forward in regional financial connectivity. The initiative is designed to expand public awareness of digital payment adoption while strengthening economic cooperation between Cambodia and Laos. The launch also supports tourism growth in both countries and aligns with the broader ASEAN vision of interconnected digital payment systems. The official ceremony was held in Phnom Penh under the high presidency of H.E Dr. Chea Serey Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia and H.E Bounkham Vorachit Governor of the Bank of the Lao PDR reflecting strong bilateral commitment at the central bank level.

Cambodia scans Laos QR code, in order to promote the wide use of Khmer Riel

ACLEDA’s Role as Settlement Bank Strengthens Local Currency Usage

ACLEDA Bank Plc. and ACLEDA Bank Lao Ltd. have been selected as the Settlement Banks for Cross Border Payment between Cambodia and Laos allowing payments to be accepted in local currencies in each other’s countries namely KHR and LAK. This initiative was jointly initiated by the National Bank of Cambodia and the Bank of the Lao PDR with the strategic goal of enhancing financial inclusion and promoting the wider use of national currencies. ACLEDA Bank continues to reinforce its reputation as “The bank you can trust, the bank for the people” by playing a central role in advancing digital finance across borders within the ASEAN region.

Building on Phase I to Deepen ASEAN Financial Integration

The Phase II launch builds on earlier progress made on August 18 2023 when ACLEDA Bank successfully introduced Phase I Cambodia scans Laos QR code. That earlier milestone promoted the use of Khmer Riel in cross border settlements and supported the integration objectives of the ASEAN Economic Community. The continued collaboration between Cambodia’s KHQR and Laos Lao QR systems highlights ACLEDA Bank’s expanding regional footprint and its proven capability to implement interoperable payment solutions across multiple ASEAN markets.

Seamless Payments for Lao Travelers and Businesses in Cambodia

With the introduction of Phase II Laos Scans KHQR Code Lao citizens traveling to Cambodia can now conveniently pay for goods and services by scanning KHQR codes displayed by merchants nationwide. Payments can be made directly through mobile banking applications provided by Lao banking and financial institutions ensuring a smooth and secure user experience. This system significantly improves payment convenience for tourists and business travelers while reducing transaction friction operating costs and cash dependency. At the same time it supports currency strength transaction efficiency and broader economic activity between the two neighboring countries.

ACLEDA Bank’s Growing Scale and Digital Ecosystem

ACLEDA Bank Plc. continues to demonstrate strong institutional capacity supported by a diversified group structure that includes ACLEDA University of Business Co., Ltd.; ACLEDA Securities Plc.; ACLEDA Bank Lao Ltd.; and ACLEDA MFI Myanmar Co., Ltd. along with a representative office in Myanmar. As of the end of September 2025 the bank reported total assets of US$11.94 billion and total savings deposits of US$9.28 billion serving more than 6.18 million customers. Its digital ecosystem is further reinforced by over 0.71 million business partners and 5.38 million ACLEDA Mobile subscribers using the ACLEDA Super App reflecting strong adoption of digital financial services.

Conclusion

The official launch of Cross Border Payment via KHQR Code Phase II represents a meaningful leap toward seamless regional payments enhanced tourism and stronger economic ties between Cambodia and Laos. By enabling local currency settlements and simplifying cross border transactions ACLEDA Bank and the two central banks are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive digitally connected ASEAN economy that benefits consumers businesses and travelers alike.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: December 19, 2025In:

Cambodia Remains Safe for Tourists Amid Border Tensions Despite recent international headlines reporting clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces, visitors, expatriates, and locals in Siem Reap confirm that the city remains calm and secure. Tourists continue to enjoy major ...Read more

Cambodia Remains Safe for Tourists Amid Border Tensions

Despite recent international headlines reporting clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces, visitors, expatriates, and locals in Siem Reap confirm that the city remains calm and secure. Tourists continue to enjoy major attractions such as Angkor Wat and Pub Street, while local authorities have assured travelers of their full protection. Images of tourists capturing the Equinox at Angkor Wat in March 2025 illustrate the normalcy and vibrant atmosphere in the city.

Is Siem Reap Still Safe for Tourists Amid Border Tensions?

Official Reassurances from Cambodia Tourism Board

Kim Minea, CEO of the Cambodia Tourism Board, stated, “We wish to clearly reassure travellers, partners and the international media that Cambodia remains safe, stable and fully open for tourism.”

He emphasized that Siem Reap city is distant from the border areas where isolated security incidents have occurred, adding that tourism services, including hotels, flights, ground transport, attractions, and guided tours, are operating as usual. “Daily life in the city continues uninterrupted,” Minea said, further stressing that misinformation should not affect travel decisions as tourists from Europe, the Americas, India, and other regions continue visiting safely and confidently.

Border Conflict Facts and Tourism Impact

According to Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence, Thai forces dropped bombs near Ou Chik Bridge in Srei Snam District on December 15, 2025, but these events occurred far from Siem Reap city. Nevertheless, some travelers reportedly canceled pre-booked trips due to media reports.

Siem Reap spokesperson Ly Vannak reassured visitors, stating, “We can say that we can ensure the safety of tourists, but we understand that it’s normal for some foreign travellers to cancel their booking as there is tension in Cambodia. Again, they can come anytime as it’s only happening in the border areas. There are many potential tourists in Siem Reap, Preah Sihanouk and Phnom Penh city, which are okay.”

Expats and Tourists Confirm Normalcy

Jane Colvin, an Australian living in Siem Reap for three years, highlighted, “I heard in the news that Thailand had attacked the border in Siem Reap, but not that it was anywhere near Angkor Wat or the city. I have lived in Siem Reap for three years and there is no change.”

Colvin confirmed that major tourism sites, markets, and daily city life operate normally and peacefully, cautioning that negative media coverage might discourage future visitors. Roeurn Serey, a local resident, echoed this sentiment, noting that business and daily routines continue unaffected.

Visitor Experiences and Advice

Sam Davies, an Australian on holiday, shared her perspective:

“It seemed like the fighting was mostly near the border. But, if I was looking for a country to go on holiday, the news would maybe put me off and I would go somewhere else, not Cambodia or Thailand. Now that I’m in Siem Reap, I wouldn’t really know that a war is going on. Everything is open as usual. I went to the temples the other day.” Davies encourages travelers to research carefully, remain calm, and recognize that many areas in Cambodia remain safe.

Community Support and Tourism Encouragement

Online voices have also rallied to support Siem Reap’s tourism industry. A TikTok video by an expatriate named Julie urged visitors not to cancel trips, noting that border conflicts are far from the city and that tourism sustains local families.

“If you cancel the trip, many people will get in trouble, as many families and people rely on tourism. Please come to visit here, as people here are so nice. You can also visit other places, like Kampot or Koh Rong,” she said, emphasizing Cambodia’s welcoming spirit.

Conclusion

Siem Reap remains a safe and vibrant destination despite border tensions. Travelers can explore its cultural heritage, lively markets, and world-famous temples with confidence. With strong reassurances from authorities and first-hand experiences from expats and tourists, Cambodia continues to welcome visitors to experience its rich history, culture, and hospitality.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: December 19, 2025In:

A Nation United in a Powerful Call for Peace Tens of thousands of Cambodians gathered in Phnom Penh on December 18, 2025, sending a clear and unified message calling for peace following Thailand’s renewed military aggression against Cambodia on ...Read more

A Nation United in a Powerful Call for Peace

Tens of thousands of Cambodians gathered in Phnom Penh on December 18, 2025, sending a clear and unified message calling for peace following Thailand’s renewed military aggression against Cambodia on December 7. The large scale public demonstration reflected deep national concern and a shared desire to protect stability, sovereignty, and human life. Citizens from all walks of life came together in a show of solidarity, reinforcing Cambodia’s longstanding commitment to peaceful resolution and regional harmony at a time of heightened tension along the border.

March for Peace in Cambodia 2025

March for Peace Reflects Cambodia’s Commitment to Stability

The collective voices of the crowd were heard during the March for Peace Together for Peace, organized by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia. The march began at the Night Market area, moved through Samdech Chuon Nath roundabout, and concluded at the park near the Independence Monument. Beyond symbolic unity, the event aimed to urge respect for the ceasefire and the peace agreement between Cambodia and Thailand, while demonstrating to the international community that Cambodia seeks dialogue and reconciliation rather than conflict.

Leadership Sends a Strong Message to the World

Leading the march, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Civil Service H.E. Hun Many, who also serves as President of the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia, emphasized the broader meaning behind the gathering. “We are all witnessing the consequences of war. This is the second border clash in the seven-month conflict, and the Cambodian people are fully aware of the dangers of war,” he said. His remarks underscored the collective awareness of the human cost of conflict and the urgency of preventing further escalation.

Humanitarian Impact Highlights the Cost of Conflict

H.E. Hun Many detailed the severe toll of the ongoing tensions, noting that 18 innocent civilians have lost their lives and 79 others have been injured. Approximately 470,000 people have been forced to flee their homes to seek safety, while more than 1,000 schools have been closed and critical infrastructure damaged. He also acknowledged that Thailand has suffered similar devastation, reinforcing that war brings loss on all sides. Over the past seven months, both Cambodian and Thai communities have endured fear, tragedy, and destruction, strengthening Cambodia’s call for peace and reconciliation.

Runners Rally in Solidarity Through RUN FOR OUR HEROES

In another powerful display of unity, more than 4,000 runners gathered at Koh Pich for RUN FOR OUR HEROES, a three kilometer charity run held in solidarity with Cambodian frontliners and displaced civilians affected by the border situation. Supported by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia, The Many Foundation, and OCIC, and co organized by 16 running clubs, the event brought together the wider Phnom Penh community around a shared humanitarian mission.

Community Action Translates Into Direct Support

The charity run successfully raised over 16,000 dollars, with all funds donated through the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia to support frontline personnel and internally displaced families. The route remained within Koh Pich, starting and finishing at Elysee Tower, creating a safe and peaceful environment for runners, volunteers, and supporters to demonstrate collective action during a time of rising humanitarian needs.

Voices of Unity and Shared Responsibility

Participants emphasized that the event represented more than physical activity. “This event was a chance for our community to show that we are united, that we are standing with those facing hardship,” said Rohit Ouk, Veteran National runner and member of the Elite Runners, who returned following the withdrawal of all Cambodian athletes from the 2025 SEA Games. “Beyond the symbolic act of running together, every step contributes to a larger purpose: to support displaced families, helping them meet basic needs and feel the strength of our collective solidarity.” His words reflected the growing role of community driven initiatives in responding to national challenges.

Health, Safety, and Growing Humanitarian Needs

With more than 470,000 people displaced across seven provinces according to the Ministry of Interior, Koh Pich has become a focal point for solidarity, hosting donation sites and charity initiatives as needs continue to rise nationwide. To ensure participant wellbeing, Intercare Hospital and Khmer Medical Hospital deployed ambulances, doctors, and nurses on site, maintaining health and safety throughout the evening run.

Sport as a Platform for Peace and Hope

“This was not just a run. It was a peaceful gathering to call for unity and to express hope for peace, while standing alongside displaced civilians through collective action,” said Sreyleap SORN, Night Runners representative. Co organized by numerous running clubs across Phnom Penh, RUN FOR OUR HEROES highlighted how sport, civic responsibility, and compassion can come together to support those most affected during a challenging period for the nation.

Conclusion

Together, the March for Peace and RUN FOR OUR HEROES demonstrated the strength of Cambodia’s collective spirit in the face of adversity. From mass public gatherings to grassroots community initiatives, Cambodians have shown a shared commitment to peace, unity, and humanitarian support. These actions send a clear message domestically and internationally that Cambodia seeks stability, reconciliation, and a future free from conflict, grounded in solidarity and compassion for all affected communities.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: December 19, 2025In:

Cambodia Introduces a Landmark Visa Exemption Pilot for Chinese Tourists Cambodia is preparing to pilot a four month visa exemption for Chinese nationals in 2026, a move described by officials as a historic milestone under the framework of the ...Read more

Cambodia Introduces a Landmark Visa Exemption Pilot for Chinese Tourists

Cambodia is preparing to pilot a four month visa exemption for Chinese nationals in 2026, a move described by officials as a historic milestone under the framework of the Cambodia China Tourism Year 2025 2026. The initiative is designed to significantly boost tourist arrivals from one of Cambodia’s most important source markets while stimulating broader economic activity, particularly during the green season when visitor numbers traditionally decline. By reducing travel barriers, the government aims to make Cambodia a more attractive and competitive destination for Chinese travelers seeking convenient and flexible travel options.

Will Visa Free Travel Transform Chinese Tourism to Cambodia in 2026?

High Level Coordination to Ensure Smooth Implementation

The proposed visa exemption was the central topic of a discussion meeting chaired by Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, which focused on reviewing the mechanisms and procedures required for the successful rollout of the pilot scheme. The meeting brought together senior representatives from key ministries and agencies, highlighting the importance of inter institutional coordination. Participants included officials from the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the General Department of Immigration, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Cambodia Tourism Board, with around 20 senior leaders and technical experts contributing to the discussions to ensure policy alignment and operational readiness.

Official Approval and Duration of the Pilot Programme

According to Royal Government Notification No. 2070 dated December 2, 2025, the government has formally approved the pilot visa exemption for Chinese nationals for a defined four month period. The scheme will run from June 15 to October 15, 2026, aligning with the green season. During this time, eligible Chinese visitors will be allowed to enter Cambodia without applying for a visa or paying any visa related fees, representing a substantial simplification of current entry requirements.

Entry Conditions and Benefits for Chinese Travelers

Under the pilot arrangement, Chinese tourists will be permitted to stay in Cambodia for up to 14 days per entry. Instead of a visa application, travelers will only need to complete an e Arrival Card prior to arrival. Importantly, the programme also allows for multiple entries during the validity period, a feature expected to encourage repeat visits and support more dynamic travel itineraries. This flexibility is particularly appealing for travelers who may wish to combine Cambodia with other regional destinations.

Supporting Tourism Growth During the Green Season

The Ministry of Tourism emphasized that the pilot project is strategically designed to stimulate Chinese tourist arrivals during the green season, which typically runs from May to October. This period often sees lower occupancy rates and reduced tourism spending compared to the peak season. By introducing targeted incentives such as visa free travel, the government aims to sustain economic momentum, support tourism related businesses, and stabilize employment across hospitality, transport, and service sectors.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Long Term Policy Outlook

Officials at the meeting also discussed operational preparedness, communication strategies, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure the policy is implemented smoothly. The Ministry of Tourism noted that the pilot will be closely observed, with data and feedback used to assess its effectiveness. Lessons learned from this initiative are expected to inform future decisions on longer term visa facilitation measures, potentially paving the way for expanded or permanent arrangements if the results prove positive.

Strengthening Cambodia China Tourism Cooperation

The visa exemption pilot forms part of broader efforts to deepen Cambodia China tourism cooperation and revitalize the tourism industry, which remains a key pillar of the national economy. By aligning policy reforms with strategic partnerships, Cambodia is positioning itself to capture greater value from regional travel demand while reinforcing its image as an open, welcoming, and competitive destination in Southeast Asia.

Conclusion

The planned four month visa exemption for Chinese tourists in 2026 represents a significant policy step aimed at boosting arrivals, supporting the green season economy, and strengthening Cambodia China tourism ties. With clear entry benefits, strong inter ministerial coordination, and a commitment to close monitoring, the pilot programme has the potential to shape future visa policies and contribute meaningfully to the recovery and long term growth of Cambodia’s tourism sector.

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