Cambodia plans digital system for casino duty payments
The proposal follows a 25.8 per cent annual drop in gambling-duty revenue during the first half of 2026.
Cambodia.-The Commercial Gambling Management Commission (CGMC) is considering the introduction of an online payment system to improve the collection and management of gambling duty in Cambodia. The proposal was discussed by representatives from the commission and taxation departments at an October 19 meeting convened by the CGMC General Secretariat.
The commission said the proposed system could make revenue administration more efficient across Cambodia’s commercial gambling sector. However, it has not yet provided a timetable for introduction or identified payment options.
The development comes after a decline in Cambodia’s gambling-duty receipts during the first half of 2026. Revenue from duties on casino gaming and gambling fell 25.8 per cent year-on-year to approximately US$28m in the six months to June 30, according to figures from the Ministry of Economy and Finance. Despite the first-half decline, full-year gambling-duty revenue is projected to reach approximately 117.7 per cent of the annual target, with tighter controls over casino revenue collection cited as one factor supporting the forecast.
The discussions are taking place alongside a crackdown on illegal online gambling and cybercrime. On October 1, the government reported that 24 casinos in Preah Sihanouk, Banteay Meanchey and Svay Rieng provinces had ceased online gambling and betting operations after a September 30 deadline.
Separately, the CGMC General Secretariat met with the legal council of the Ministry of Economy and Finance on October 14 to review a draft Law on the Suppression of Illegal Gambling. The discussions focused on ensuring that the proposed legislation was consistent with Cambodia’s existing commercial gambling laws and regulations.
