NBC Raises Concern Over Unregulated Payment App

The National Bank of Cambodia has issued a public warning urging people to stay alert after a surge in promotions for an app known as PaiPay, also referred to as PAI, circulating widely on Telegram. The central bank revealed that this app allows users to create wallets, deposit funds, transfer money, and make payments, yet it operates without any regulatory approval. This has raised serious concerns about potential online scams, especially as the app continues to gain visibility through aggressive digital promotion in major areas such as Phnom Penh and Preah Sihanouk. Authorities are emphasizing that the lack of oversight means users could be exposed to financial risks without legal protection.

PaiPay and Pi Pay Are Not the Same

Confusion has grown partly because PaiPay appears to be imitating the name and concept of Pi Pay Plc, a legitimate and licensed digital payment platform in Cambodia. According to the central bank, the PaiPay app is not affiliated with any institution that holds a valid license. It operates mainly through a Telegram chatbot and is also available on major app stores, which may give users a false sense of legitimacy. The NBC made its position clear, stating, “The National Bank of Cambodia confirms that the PAI or PaiPay app is not a mobile payment service operated by any institution licensed by the NBC. Therefore, the public is advised to remain highly vigilant against online scams that may expose them to risks,” said the NBC statement. This clarification directly addresses the growing question among users about which service is legal.

Pi Pay Confirms Its Licensed Status

In response to the confusion, Pi Pay Plc reaffirmed its official standing as a licensed payment service provider regulated by the NBC.

The company stressed that it operates fully in compliance with Cambodian laws and holds the registered trademark rights to its brand. It also acknowledged the central bank’s role in protecting consumers and maintaining transparency across the financial sector. “We would also like to express our appreciation to the National Bank of Cambodia for its continued efforts in maintaining transparency, protecting consumers and taking action against unlicensed or misleading financial service operators,” it said. This statement reinforces that Pi Pay remains a trusted and legally recognized platform, unlike the unregulated PaiPay application.

Authorities Step Up Investigation

The National Bank of Cambodia has confirmed that it is working closely with relevant authorities to investigate the promotion and operation of the PaiPay app. The goal is to prevent further spread of misleading information and protect the public from potential fraud. As digital payment platforms become more popular, officials are urging users to verify the legitimacy of financial services before using them. This case highlights the importance of regulatory oversight in ensuring safe and secure financial transactions in Cambodia’s rapidly evolving digital economy.

Conclusion

The difference between PaiPay and Pi Pay is clear when it comes to legality and trust. While Pi Pay operates under official regulation and complies with national laws, PaiPay has no recognized license and poses potential risks to users. The warning from the National Bank of Cambodia serves as a timely reminder for the public to remain cautious, verify sources, and avoid engaging with unregulated financial platforms. As Cambodia continues to embrace digital payments, awareness and vigilance will be key to protecting both consumers and the broader financial system.

A New Electric Vehicle Factory Signals Industrial Growth

Pursat Province is preparing to welcome a significant boost to its industrial landscape with the announcement of a 46 million US dollar electric vehicle assembly and installation factory. According to the Council for the Development of Cambodia, the project will be established in the Pursat Special Economic Zone, marking another step forward in Cambodia’s push toward modern and sustainable industries. The development reflects growing investor confidence in the country’s manufacturing sector and highlights the increasing role of green technology in shaping Cambodia’s economic future.

Investment Brings Jobs and Local Opportunities

The new factory is expected to generate around 428 jobs, offering valuable employment opportunities for residents in Krakor District and surrounding areas. For many local families, this project represents more than just industrial expansion, it creates pathways for stable income and skill development in a rapidly evolving sector. The CDC extended its congratulations to the local community, emphasizing the positive social and economic impact this investment will bring to Pursat Province.

Strategic Location Enhances Industrial Potential

The facility will be located in Sarvan Village, Sna Ansa Commune, Krakor District, within the Pursat Special Economic Zone. This strategic location provides access to infrastructure, logistics networks, and a supportive investment environment, making it ideal for large scale manufacturing. The project is being developed by Zo Motor (Cambodia) Co., Ltd., further strengthening Cambodia’s position as an emerging hub for automotive assembly in the region.

Cambodia’s Investment Momentum Continues

The EV factory is part of a broader wave of investment activity across the country. In January 2026 alone, the Cambodia Investment Committee under the CDC approved 43 investment projects with a combined value of approximately 752 million US dollars. This surge in investment underscores Cambodia’s attractiveness to international investors and its commitment to diversifying the economy through high value industries such as electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing.

Conclusion

The establishment of the EV assembly plant in Pursat marks a meaningful step in Cambodia’s industrial evolution. With strong investment inflows, job creation, and a shift toward sustainable technologies, the country is building a foundation for long term economic growth. As projects like this continue to emerge, Cambodia is positioning itself as a competitive destination for future focused industries in Southeast Asia.

Private Sector Drives Cambodia’s Future Growth

Cambodia’s path toward sustainable economic growth is increasingly tied to the strength of its private sector, which continues to play a central role in generating wealth, creating jobs, and adding value across industries.

Speaking at the finals of the InnoLab Kampong Thom project, Vongsey Vissoth emphasized the importance of business activity as a foundation for long term national development. He highlighted how entrepreneurs and enterprises not only stimulate economic momentum but also provide opportunities for millions of Cambodians to improve their livelihoods. His message was clear that a strong private sector is not just beneficial but essential for the country’s future stability and prosperity.

Entrepreneurs as the Engine of Economic Growth

At the heart of this progress are entrepreneurs, described as the driving force behind the private sector’s expansion. Reflecting on the success of the InnoLab Kampong Thom initiative, Vissoth pointed to the value of equipping business owners with practical skills, innovation, and technology that allow them to scale their operations. The program, which supported entrepreneurs, traders, producers, and family run businesses, demonstrated how targeted training and mentorship can transform small enterprises into competitive and sustainable ventures. By strengthening these capabilities, Cambodia is building a new generation of business leaders who can adapt to changing market demands and contribute more effectively to economic growth.

Building Skills and Expanding Opportunities

A key factor behind the private sector’s importance lies in its ability to absorb and employ a large share of the workforce. With approximately 9.5 million active workers compared to a much smaller public sector, the private sector serves as the primary engine for job creation and income generation.

Vissoth reinforced this point, stating, “I still believe that the private sector remains the driving force of long-term national economic development, as it plays a vital role in creating wealth, jobs, and added value, with entrepreneurs serving as the leaders or ‘generals’ of the sector,” said Vissoth, who also heads the Royal Government Working Group in Kampong Thom province. By investing in entrepreneurship and workforce development, Cambodia is positioning itself to unlock broader economic opportunities and reduce reliance on public sector employment.

Creating a Strong Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Beyond individual businesses, the broader ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship is equally important. Vissoth stressed that building a vibrant and inclusive business environment will enable entrepreneurs to thrive and expand their impact. This includes fostering innovation, encouraging creativity, and integrating technology into business operations. Initiatives like InnoLab Kampong Thom are helping to create this ecosystem by combining practical business training with modern tools and ideas. When entrepreneurs are equipped with the right resources and support, they become more capable of driving growth not only for their own enterprises but also for the wider economy.

Toward a More Self Reliant and Competitive Economy

Strengthening the private sector is also closely linked to Cambodia’s ambition to become more self reliant and resilient in the face of global challenges. Vissoth highlighted that empowering capable and innovative entrepreneurs will help the country build a stronger economic foundation, where businesses can produce goods, create value, and compete both locally and internationally.

This vision aligns with the broader national development strategy under Hun Manet, which aims to transform provinces such as Kampong Thom into dynamic hubs for investment, trade, and tourism. By encouraging local enterprise and attracting investment, Cambodia is laying the groundwork for balanced and inclusive growth.

Conclusion

The private sector stands at the center of Cambodia’s long term economic vision, driving job creation, innovation, and national prosperity. By empowering entrepreneurs, investing in skills, and building a supportive business ecosystem, the country is creating the conditions needed for sustainable growth. As Cambodia continues to strengthen its private sector, it moves closer to achieving a more resilient, self reliant, and competitive economy that can deliver lasting benefits for its people.

Promoting Local Products at the Community Level

The Ministry of Commerce has brought its ‘National Product Campaign #MadeInCambodia’ to life in Kandal Province, turning the riverside park in Ta Khmau city into a vibrant space for showcasing locally made goods. The initiative is designed to encourage both retail and wholesale support for Cambodian products, giving farmers, producers, and small businesses a stronger platform to reach consumers. By creating a direct connection between local producers and buyers, the campaign highlights the value of choosing homegrown products while strengthening domestic trade.

Strong Participation Across Sectors

The event was led by Tor Pila and Khon Sereiratha, drawing wide participation from government representatives, local authorities, traders, business owners, and handicraft producers. Supermarkets, malls, and mini marts also played a key role, reflecting a coordinated effort across both public and private sectors. This broad involvement shows a growing commitment to supporting Cambodian products and ensuring they gain visibility in everyday marketplaces.

Nationwide Support for Cambodian Goods

The ‘National Product Campaign #MadeInCambodia’ has already gained strong momentum nationwide, with more than 400 supermarkets, malls, and mini marts joining the initiative. This expanding network allows local products to reach a wider audience, making it easier for consumers across the country to access and support domestically produced goods. The campaign not only promotes consumption within Cambodia but also aims to strengthen the country’s export potential by building recognition and trust in local brands.

Encouraging Pride in Local Production

At its core, the campaign goes beyond sales and marketing by fostering a sense of national pride. It encourages people to support Cambodian farmers and producers while celebrating the quality and uniqueness of local products. By promoting the idea of choosing locally made goods, the initiative reinforces a shared commitment to economic growth and national identity. It also provides small businesses with valuable exposure, helping them expand and compete in a rapidly evolving market.

Ongoing Effort to Boost Market Opportunities

The campaign is not a one time event but part of a sustained effort that runs for one week each month throughout the year. This regular schedule ensures continuous promotion and creates ongoing opportunities for businesses to showcase their products in supermarkets, traditional markets, and mini marts. By maintaining consistent engagement, the Ministry of Commerce is helping to build long term demand for Cambodian goods while supporting local enterprises in reaching new customers.

Conclusion

The ‘Made in Cambodia’ campaign in Kandal reflects a strategic push to strengthen domestic consumption, empower local producers, and expand market access for Cambodian products. Through strong collaboration and nationwide participation, the initiative is creating meaningful opportunities for businesses while encouraging consumers to support their own economy. As the campaign continues to grow, it is set to play an important role in shaping a more resilient and self sustaining market for Cambodia.

Strong Growth Despite Rising Pressures

Cambodia’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience even as it faces a mix of global and domestic challenges, according to the latest Business Outlook 2026 report released by the American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia. The findings highlight that economic momentum remains intact despite growing pressures from geopolitical tensions, including conflicts in the Middle East and ongoing border concerns with Thailand. At the same time, issues such as industrial scale online scams, rising fuel costs, and supply chain disruptions have contributed to higher consumer prices. Increased airfares have also affected tourism flows, adding another layer of complexity to the country’s economic landscape.

Reform Urged to Sustain Long Term Growth

While the overall outlook remains positive, the report emphasizes that current growth levels may not be enough to meet Cambodia’s long term development ambitions. It calls for strategic reforms, including the need to strengthen trade relations with the United States through a reciprocal agreement that could help safeguard exports and improve productivity.

Speaking on his final day as AmCham president, Casey Barnett underscored the importance of reform, stating, “The Cambodian economy is strong and resilient despite the challenges. However, if we want to achieve high-income status by 2050, reforms are needed, particularly to reduce excessive red tape and licensing requirements,” he said. His remarks reflect a broader consensus within the business community that policy adjustments are necessary to unlock the next phase of growth.

Business Confidence Remains Steady

Despite uncertainties, business sentiment in Cambodia remains largely optimistic. The report shows that 63 percent of surveyed companies plan to invest in the coming year, while about half expect profit growth. However, there are signs of caution as well, with the proportion of firms anticipating declining profits rising from 20 percent in 2025 to 34 percent in 2026. This shift suggests that while confidence remains, businesses are becoming more mindful of potential risks and market volatility in the near future.

Improvements in Tax Administration

One of the more encouraging developments highlighted in the report is the improvement in tax administration. The General Department of Taxation has made notable progress by streamlining audit procedures, increasing transparency, and strengthening engagement with the private sector through regular consultations. Businesses have responded positively to these changes, noting that faster and more efficient processes have helped reduce disputes and improve overall trust in the system. These efforts are seen as an important step toward creating a more supportive and predictable business environment.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s economy continues to hold steady in the face of evolving challenges, supported by strong fundamentals and ongoing improvements in governance. However, the path toward long term prosperity will depend on the country’s ability to implement meaningful reforms and adapt to changing global conditions. By addressing structural issues and strengthening international partnerships, Cambodia can build on its resilience and move closer to achieving its high income ambitions in the decades ahead.