TRC Introduces a 180 Day Window to Reclaim Expired Phone Numbers
The Telecommunications Regulator of Cambodia has announced a consumer friendly reform that allows mobile phone users to reclaim expired numbers within 180 days simply by topping up their account, without any requirement to re register. According to the December 22 statement, this measure will take effect from January 1, 2026 and is designed to ensure more effective use of mobile services while protecting consumer interests across the country.
Simple Reactivation Without Re Registration
Under the new requirement, any mobile number whose main account balance has expired for no more than 180 days can be reactivated through a standard recharge. Users will not need to visit a service provider’s branch or submit identification again. This approach removes administrative barriers and gives subscribers greater flexibility, particularly those who use multiple SIM cards or travel frequently.
Balance Protection and Mandatory User Notifications
The TRC has also instructed mobile operators to retain any remaining account balance for up to 180 days after service expiry. If the user tops up within this period, the last remaining balance must be fully restored. The regulator emphasized consumer communication, stating, “Before the 180-day retention period expires, mobile operators must remind users via Short Message Service (SMS) at least twice, as well as through the operator’s mobile application. These reminders must be sent at appropriate intervals to inform users of the final termination date and the opportunity to recover their remaining balance through a top-up,” it said.
Addressing Longstanding Complaints Over Premium Numbers
In the past, many subscribers, especially owners of premium or attractive phone numbers, reported sudden disconnections without adequate notice, often due to short top up deadlines. Once disconnected, these numbers were sometimes resold at high prices to new customers. The new TRC directive directly addresses these concerns by ensuring transparency, advance warnings, and fair treatment of number ownership.
Stronger SIM Registration Rules for Sector Order and Security
Alongside the reactivation policy, Minister of Posts and Telecommunications Chea Vandeth has reinforced a six month initiative to eliminate unregistered SIM cards or those registered under another person’s name. The goal is to strengthen order within the telecommunications sector and enhance national security by preventing misuse of SIM cards without valid identification. Speaking at the Digital Government Forum 2025 in early December, Vandeth warned that some operators are still distributing SIM cards without proper ID checks and confirmed that by June 2026, improperly registered SIM cards will be deactivated.
Conclusion
The TRC’s 180 day phone number reactivation policy marks a significant step toward stronger consumer protection and greater accountability among mobile operators in Cambodia. By combining balance retention, mandatory user notifications, and stricter SIM registration enforcement, the regulator is addressing long standing public complaints while supporting a more secure and orderly telecommunications environment. For mobile users, the message is clear awareness and timely top ups now come with stronger rights and clearer safeguards.