Cambodia is on the brink of a technological revolution with the impending rollout of fifth-generation (5G) internet technology. This advancement is poised to support digital government initiatives, empower digital citizenship, and foster the growth of digital businesses, thereby driving the nation’s digital transformation. Prime Minister Hun Manet has authorized the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MPTC) to launch the 5G system and is currently considering an appropriate time for its official rollout.
The Journey Towards 5G in Cambodia
The journey towards 5G in Cambodia has been marked by significant milestones. In 2018, Cellcard, a leading Cambodian-owned operator, conducted successful 5G tests, achieving impressive speeds of 1.5 Gbps over a 3.5 GHz frequency. This early demonstration showcased the potential of 5G technology in the country. By 2021, the Cambodian government and mobile service providers had been upgrading the nation’s telecom infrastructure to support 5G networks.
In 2025, Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized the importance of 5G in supporting digital government, digital citizenship, and digital businesses, highlighting its role in driving Cambodia’s digital transformation.
The Benefits of 5G Technology
The introduction of 5G technology in Cambodia promises numerous benefits across various sectors:
- Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB): 5G offers ultra-fast data speeds, enabling innovations such as 3D and Ultra HD video streaming, smart home applications, and next-generation gaming experiences.
- Massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC): This aspect of 5G supports Internet of Things (IoT) applications in agriculture, smart cities, and building management, facilitating efficient data collection and analysis.
- Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC): 5G’s low latency is crucial for applications requiring real-time responses, such as industrial automation and advanced healthcare services like remote surgery.
These capabilities are expected to drive advancements in augmented and virtual reality, industrial automation, self-driving vehicles, and remote healthcare services, improving access to medical care across the country.
Infrastructure and Spectrum Allocation
A major component of 5G deployment in Cambodia is the 3.5 GHz frequency band, which is currently unused by 2G, 3G, and 4G networks. This mid-band frequency provides coverage similar to the 2.6 GHz band and contributes significantly to the expected 5G-driven GDP growth by 2030. By allocating blocks of 100 MHz, 5G in Cambodia could achieve peak download speeds of 20 Gbps and an average download speed of 100 Mbps, significantly improving connectivity.
The MPTC has been proactive in expanding 4G infrastructure and securing key radio frequencies. The ministry has sought government approval to reserve the 3.5 GHz band for mobile services and is managing the 700 MHz frequency for future 5G use. A dedicated task force is also drafting a spectrum management plan and overseeing digital TV investments to clear the 700 MHz band, ensuring a smooth transition to next-generation connectivity.
Challenges in 5G Deployment
Despite steady progress, Cambodia faces key challenges in its 5G rollout:
- Interference with Neighboring Countries: There is potential interference with Vietnamese satellites in the 3.5 GHz band. To overcome this, the ministry is strengthening cross-border coordination with Vietnam and implementing technical shielding measures.
- Spectrum Clearance: Delays in freeing up the 700 MHz spectrum due to ongoing analogue TV use pose challenges. The ministry is expediting the digital TV transition to clear the 700 MHz band for 5G deployment.
- Infrastructure Development: Building the necessary infrastructure, such as antenna stations, requires significant investment and coordination. The ministry continues to prioritize the expansion of digital infrastructure despite challenges like cooperation issues for antenna station locations.
Addressing Health Concerns
Public concern regarding possible side effects to public health due to mobile phone antennas has been addressed by the government. Prime Minister Hun Manet assured citizens that they should not be concerned about any adverse health effects from the electromagnetic waves used in wireless technology. Citing a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), he explained that there is no scientific evidence linking mobile phone antennas to health risks.
The primary impact of electromagnetic waves on human cells is thermal, leading to an insignificant temperature increase of less than 1°C, which poses no health risk. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has confirmed that mobile communication services operating within standards set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) are safe. Additionally, the higher the frequency, the lower the ability of electromagnetic waves to penetrate body cells, reducing energy absorption.
The Road Ahead
As Cambodia prepares for the official rollout of 5G technology, the focus remains on enhancing digital infrastructure, securing necessary spectrum allocations, and addressing any challenges that arise. The government’s commitment to digital transformation is evident in its strategic initiatives and investments aimed at leveraging 5G to drive economic growth and societal development.
The successful deployment of 5G in Cambodia is expected to revolutionize various sectors, from healthcare and education to agriculture and industry, by providing faster, more reliable, and more efficient connectivity. As the nation stands on the cusp of this digital revolution, the future of a connected Cambodia looks promising.
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