Drone Regulations in Cambodia: Ensuring Security in a Changing Landscape

What is a Drone? How is it Commonly Used in Cambodia?

A drone, also known as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), is an aircraft operated without a human pilot onboard. It is controlled remotely or autonomously, making it versatile for a wide range of applications. In Cambodia, drones have become increasingly popular for both recreational and commercial use. They are commonly employed for aerial photography, agriculture, construction, and surveillance. Businesses use drones to monitor crops, deliver goods, or inspect infrastructure, while tourists and hobbyists fly drones for capturing stunning aerial shots of the country’s scenic landscapes.

As drone usage in Cambodia grows, so does the need for regulations to ensure safety and security, particularly in light of recent events.

Why is the Government Issuing New Drone Regulations?

In response to a significant security threat, the Cambodian government has issued new inter-ministerial guidelines regarding drone usage. These regulations were announced shortly after Prime Minister Hun Sen revealed a plot to use drones in an assassination attempt on his residence in Takhmao city on Febuary 11, 2025. According to Hun Sen, terrorists had been planning to use drones to carry out the attack, adding urgency to the need for stronger controls.

“Be warned – the plan to attack my Takhmao residence with a drone is real. Those involved must remember this and disappear from Takeo. Supporting such an attack threatens national security. Do not dare to harm or kill me,” he said, according to the pro-government Fresh News service.

In light of this threat, the government recognized the potential risks drones pose, not only in terms of security but also in maintaining public order. Drones, with their ability to fly into restricted or sensitive areas, can be used for illicit activities if not properly regulated. The new guidelines aim to protect national security, prevent terrorism, and safeguard the privacy of citizens.

What You Need to Be Aware Of:

Under the newly issued regulations, several key points have been outlined to ensure responsible drone use:

1. Age and Operating Hours: Operators must be at least 18 years old, and drones can only be flown between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Special permission is required for flights outside of these hours.
2. Restricted Areas and Safety Measures: Drones are prohibited from flying over private property, crowded areas, emergency sites, law enforcement operations, and watercraft without permission. Operators must avoid capturing images that identify individuals or invade privacy.
3. Maximum Payload and Restrictions: The regulations apply to drones that can carry a payload of two kilograms or more, while drones used for national defense and security are governed by a separate legal framework. No more than four drones are allowed to operate simultaneously without authorization.
4. Accountability: Operators are held accountable for their actions, and violations could result in legal consequences. This includes flying under the influence or carrying hazardous materials, which is strictly forbidden.

These new rules are part of Cambodia’s broader effort to enhance security and maintain order in an era where drones are increasingly accessible and versatile. The government’s move to regulate drone use underscores its commitment to addressing new threats and ensuring that these devices are used responsibly.

Share Your Opinion

With drone usage rising and security concerns mounting, it is clear that regulations are necessary to balance technological advancement with safety and privacy. What do you think of Cambodia’s new drone regulations? Do you believe these measures will effectively curb security threats while still allowing businesses and enthusiasts to benefit from drone technology? Share your thoughts with us!

Cambodia’s internet scene in 2025 looks remarkably different from just a decade ago. From patchy connections and limited coverage, the Kingdom is now entering an age of robust digital connectivity — all thanks to fierce market competition, forward-looking government policies, and the relentless push of global digital trends.

If you’re living in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, or even in some remote provinces, chances are your daily life is increasingly tied to fast, stable internet — be it for online learning, running a Facebook shop, streaming dramas on YouTube, or sending money to family via a digital wallet.

So how did Cambodia arrive here, and what does the internet services landscape look like today? Let’s dive deep.

Over 20 Million Internet Subscribers: A Massive Leap

According to the Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia (TRC), by 2025, the country proudly counts over 20 million Internet subscribers. That’s a staggering rise from around 16.6 million in 2020 — the year COVID-19 forced people to work and study from home, accelerating digital adoption.

Keep in mind Cambodia’s total population is only about 17 million. How is this possible? It’s simple: many Cambodians own multiple SIM cards or data plans, using separate subscriptions for work, personal, or gaming purposes.

Still, the figure is telling. It shows internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity woven into the fabric of everyday Cambodian life.

The Competitive Landscape: Why Customers Are Winning

A recent report by nPerf.com, a global platform that benchmarks internet quality, reveals how competition has truly paid off for Cambodian consumers.

Their latest analysis, based on thousands of tests across Cambodia, ranks operators on download speeds, upload speeds, latency (important for gaming and video calls), browsing smoothness, and streaming quality. The results speak volumes:

• Mekongnet leads Cambodia’s fixed internet sector, scoring 80,775 nPoints, with impressive download speeds averaging 55.5 Mbps and upload at 41.6 Mbps, plus the best latency at 43.3 ms.
• Metfone comes second, showing significant improvements: 15.3% faster downloads and 13.9% better browsing performance than the previous year. Their overall score rose by 11.5%.
• SingMeng Telemedia holds third place. While it needs to boost its latency (currently at 72.3 ms) and browsing (40%), it still ensures good streaming quality (68.1%).

This rivalry benefits consumers tremendously. Providers are constantly upgrading their networks to retain and attract customers. In return, Cambodians get faster, more reliable connections at competitive prices.

Urban vs Rural Divide: Slowly Narrowing

Historically, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville enjoyed the best internet infrastructure. Rural communes, meanwhile, lagged behind, often limited to 3G or slow 4G signals.

But 2025 marks notable change. Under the Digital Economy and Social Policy Framework 2021-2035, the Royal Government prioritized extending fiber-optic cables and improving mobile broadband to even the most remote communes.

A Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications report last year highlighted that fiber-optic infrastructure now covers over 90% of the country’s districts, and many villages have at least one tower capable of delivering 4G LTE. This is a game-changer for students doing online assignments or farmers checking real-time market prices.

The Push Toward 5G: Is Cambodia Ready?

Cambodia’s telecom sector isn’t stopping at 4G. The government’s Phase I Pentagonal Strategy includes concrete steps to transition toward 5G, making it one of the key priorities alongside rural electrification and road development.

Metfone and Smart Axiata have already conducted pilot tests in Phnom Penh and parts of Siem Reap. Industry insiders suggest commercial 5G could roll out in limited urban areas by late 2025 or early 2026, starting with business hubs and industrial parks.

5G won’t just mean lightning-fast movie downloads. It’s crucial for supporting future technologies like autonomous delivery vehicles, smart city systems (like traffic lights responding to real-time congestion), telemedicine, and even advanced agricultural sensors.

The Fiber Revolution: Undersea and Overland Cables

Much of Cambodia’s internet still depends on international connectivity. In recent years, partnerships with neighboring countries have expanded undersea cable projects.

For instance:

• A joint venture involving Cambodian operators and international partners completed an undersea cable linking Sihanoukville directly to Hong Kong, dramatically boosting international bandwidth.
• New cross-border agreements with Vietnam and Thailand mean more robust redundancy — if one line fails, data can reroute, avoiding the slowdowns Cambodians used to suffer during cable breaks.

Domestically, thousands of kilometers of fiber-optic lines crisscross the country, laid along highways and even under rivers. That’s why even small towns today can get stable broadband.

Why Competition Is So Fierce — And Good for Users

Cambodia has an unusually vibrant telecom market. Major players include:

• Metfone (owned by Viettel Group of Vietnam)
• Smart Axiata (part of Malaysia’s Axiata Group)
• Cellcard (Cambodian-owned)
• Mekongnet (focused on fixed broadband)
• SingMeng Telemedia (with Chinese investment backing)

They’re locked in a constant battle to win subscribers, offering ever-better packages: faster speeds, lower prices, unlimited night data for TikTokers and gamers, or bundled entertainment services.

It’s why even average Cambodians in 2025 might afford 50 Mbps home WiFi for just $20/month, something unimaginable a decade ago.

How Cambodians Use the Internet in 2025

So with all this connectivity, what are Cambodians doing online?

• E-commerce booms: Local platforms like Little Fashion and global giants like Shopee keep growing. Sellers stream live on Facebook every night, while buyers enjoy next-day delivery.
• Social media remains king: Cambodia consistently ranks among the world’s top in Facebook penetration, with Instagram and TikTok also huge. Influencers are not just urban; rural teens now broadcast live from rice fields or fishing boats.
• Gaming culture is thriving: From PUBG Mobile squads to online card games, Cambodians are heavy gamers. Esports tournaments now attract thousands.
• Education online: Universities run hybrid courses, and countless youths study coding, English, or even AI on YouTube and Coursera.
• Digital payments: E-wallets like Pi Pay, Wing, and TrueMoney mean fewer cash trips. People pay for groceries and send money to relatives instantly.

Key Challenges: Cybersecurity and Digital Literacy

However, the rapid rise of connectivity also brings challenges. Scams, phishing, and online fraud have increased, prompting the government to run digital literacy campaigns through schools and TV ads.

The Ministry of Interior’s cybercrime units have also become more active, cracking down on identity theft, illegal gambling, and online scams.

At the same time, many Cambodians still lack deep digital literacy. They can use Facebook fluently but may struggle with spotting fake websites or managing privacy settings.

Looking Ahead: The Next 5 Years

What might Cambodia’s internet look like by 2030?

Experts predict:

• Ubiquitous 5G in all major cities and industrial zones.
• AI-powered traffic management and smart agriculture tools reliant on stable connectivity.
• Faster undersea connections linking Cambodia directly to Japan, the Philippines, and Australia, reducing reliance on routes through Vietnam and Thailand.
• Possible emergence of local Cambodian tech startups building apps tailored to Khmer language needs, from banking to health.

In short, the foundation laid by the competitive 2025 landscape sets the stage for an even more connected digital future.

Why This Matters for Cambodians?

Whether it’s a farmer using a mobile app to check cassava prices, a teen uploading dance clips on TikTok, or a young entrepreneur running a Facebook shop that ships to the USA — reliable internet is changing lives in Cambodia.

As nPerf’s report rightly highlighted:

“The competitive landscape benefits Cambodian consumers, who have access to increasingly improved Internet services. As operators continue to invest in their networks, we can expect further enhancements in fixed Internet performance throughout the country.”

This is not just about entertainment or convenience. It’s about economic growth, education, and opportunity. A fast, stable internet unlocks new markets, helps businesses reach customers worldwide, and ensures that Cambodians are not left behind in the global digital revolution.

What Do You Think?

Are you happy with your current internet provider? Have you felt the improvements over the last few years? What digital opportunities excite you most about the future of Cambodia?

👉 Drop your thoughts in the comments below or share this article with friends on Facebook and Telegram! Let’s build a smarter, better-connected Cambodia together.

The second day of the eighteenth Cambodia Trade Expo 2025 placed a strong emphasis on women’s leadership in the national business landscape, signaling a major push toward greater gender inclusivity in commerce. The event showcased a dedicated forum that celebrated women’s contributions in multiple sectors while stressing the urgency of widening opportunities for female entrepreneurs to participate meaningfully in trade and economic development. With growing interest from policymakers, development partners and the private sector, the expo reinforced a shared commitment to elevating women as drivers of growth and innovation.

Women in Commerce Forum Highlights the Gender Agenda

Organised by the Ministry of Commerce’s Gender Working Group, the “Women in Commerce” forum served as a platform to recognise women’s vital economic roles and to encourage more active engagement in entrepreneurship, trade and commercial governance. Attendees included representatives from government institutions, financial organisations, development agencies and established private sector players. Their discussions provided valuable insights drawn from real experiences, particularly around how to empower women to enter and advance in business despite ongoing constraints.

Underscoring Women’s Role in Economic Growth

Keynote speaker Serei Borapich, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, emphasised that women remain central to Cambodia’s economic growth yet often lack the recognition and support they deserve. She highlighted that women-owned micro, small and medium enterprises represent a substantial share of the economy, especially in retail, services and light manufacturing, but many female entrepreneurs continue to face difficulties in scaling their operations. “Women in Cambodia possess enormous entrepreneurial potential, but access to finance, digital skills, market information and networking opportunities remains limited for many,” she said. “Strengthening women’s participation in commerce is not only a matter of equality, but also essential for national economic competitiveness.”

Persistent Challenges Facing Female Entrepreneurs

Chan Pheary, President of the Cambodian Women Entrepreneurs Association, echoed these concerns, stressing that although the number of women-led businesses is rising, structural and operational obstacles still limit their growth. Many women struggle to move beyond small scale operations, penetrate export markets or navigate complex regulatory processes. “Cambodian women are resilient and innovative, but they often operate with fewer resources and face more risks,” Pheary said. “Support mechanisms such as mentorship, training and inclusive financing are vital to help women entrepreneurs move from survival businesses to growth-driven enterprises.” Her remarks reinforced the need for sustained institutional support to ensure female entrepreneurs can transition into competitive business leaders both locally and regionally.

Growing Importance of Digital Skills and Financial Literacy

Speakers from development organisations and financial institutions further highlighted the role of digital transformation and financial literacy in helping women succeed in commerce. They shared ongoing initiatives aimed at boosting capability among women led MSMEs, including specialised credit schemes, skills development programmes and regional networking platforms. These efforts are designed to bridge gaps that hinder women from accessing modern tools, expanding into new markets and strengthening their businesses in an increasingly technology driven economy.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women Leaders

The forum also offered a series of panel discussions and experience sharing sessions featuring women who lead across diverse sectors. Their stories aimed to motivate younger women to pursue entrepreneurship and step confidently into leadership roles. Organisers underscored that the event is part of the Ministry of Commerce’s wider agenda to integrate gender equality into trade policies and create a more inclusive and supportive commercial environment for all.

CTExpo 2025 Opens Opportunities for Business Engagement

Taking place at the PH Grand Hall at Borey Peng Huoth Boeng Snor in Phnom Penh, CTExpo 2025 runs from December 4 to 7 and is open to the public at no cost. Visitors are encouraged to explore a wide variety of products and services from both local and international exhibitors. Alongside the displays, thematic forums continue to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and Cambodia’s expanding trade potential, making the expo an essential platform for businesses, investors and aspiring entrepreneurs.