The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) is the primary regulator for all financial institutions and payment service providers in Cambodia. This guide covers the key laws, PRAKAS (sub-decrees), licensing requirements, and compliance obligations relevant to fintech companies operating in or entering the Cambodian market.
The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), established under the Law on the Organization and Functioning of the National Bank of Cambodia, serves as the central bank and primary financial regulator. It is responsible for monetary policy, banking supervision, payment system oversight, and the licensing of all financial institutions.
Cambodia's financial regulatory framework is built on a hierarchy of laws enacted by the National Assembly, supplemented by PRAKAS (ministerial regulations) issued by the NBC Governor, and circulars providing operational guidance. This structure allows the NBC to adapt regulations relatively quickly to address emerging fintech developments.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and World Bank have both supported Cambodia's regulatory capacity building, providing technical assistance for developing proportionate fintech regulations that balance innovation with consumer protection and financial stability.
The foundational law governing the establishment, operation, and supervision of banks and financial institutions in Cambodia.
Governs payment systems, electronic payments, and the licensing of payment service providers including e-wallets and money transfer operators.
Establishes AML/CTF obligations for financial institutions, including customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and reporting requirements.
Provides the legal framework for electronic transactions, digital signatures, and online commerce in Cambodia.
Government strategic framework guiding digital infrastructure investment, e-government, and fintech ecosystem development.
PRAKAS are regulations issued by the NBC Governor that provide detailed operational requirements for financial institutions. They are the primary tool for implementing fintech-specific rules. Key PRAKAS relevant to fintech include:
Licensing conditions, capital requirements, and operational standards for PSPs including e-wallets and payment gateways
Conditions for MDI licensing, deposit insurance, and consumer protection requirements
New framework issued February 2026 governing licensing and supervision of asset management companies
Caps interest rates on microfinance loans at 18% per annum to address over-indebtedness concerns
Disclosure requirements, complaint handling, and fair treatment standards for financial service providers
Full PRAKAS texts are available on the NBC website: nbc.gov.kh/english/legislation
| License Type | Min. Capital | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Bank | $75M minimum | Full banking license; can accept deposits, issue loans, provide all financial services |
| Specialized Bank | $15M minimum | Limited to specific activities (e.g., mortgage, development finance) |
| Microfinance Deposit-Taking Institution (MDI) | $2.5M minimum | Can accept deposits and provide microcredit; regulated under specific PRAKAS |
| Microfinance Institution (MFI) | $62,500 minimum | Credit-only; cannot accept public deposits |
| Payment Service Provider (PSP) | Varies by tier | Includes e-wallets, payment gateways, money transfer operators |
| Rural Credit Institution | Lower threshold | Serves rural communities; limited geographic scope |
Capital requirements are indicative. Contact NBC for current requirements. Source: NBC PRAKAS on licensing conditions.
Law on E-Commerce enacted; NBC begins developing Bakong payment infrastructure
Bakong blockchain payment platform launched (October); AML law amended
Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021–2035 adopted; NBC issues new PSP licensing framework
KHQR national QR standard launched (July); NBC introduces regulatory sandbox for fintech innovation
Cross-border QR payment agreements with Thailand and Malaysia; NBC tightens MFI oversight
Interest rate cap on MFI loans enforced; Bakong Tourists App launched; NBC-Weixin Pay MOU signed
NBC Annual Report shows $101.8B in banking assets; new asset management PRAKAS in development
PRAKAS No. B37.026.113 on Asset Management Institutions issued
All licensed financial institutions and payment service providers in Cambodia must comply with the Law on Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CTF), most recently amended in 2020. Key obligations include:
Cambodia is a member of the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) and undergoes regular mutual evaluations. The country has been working to strengthen its AML/CTF framework in line with FATF recommendations.
The NBC introduced a regulatory sandbox framework to allow fintech companies to test innovative products and services in a controlled environment with relaxed regulatory requirements. This initiative, supported by the Asian Development Bank, enables startups to validate their business models before applying for full licensing.
The sandbox has been used by payment service providers and digital lending platforms to pilot new products. Successful participants can transition to full licensing with the benefit of having demonstrated regulatory compliance during the sandbox period.
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Regulatory requirements change frequently. Always consult the NBC directly or engage a qualified legal advisor for compliance matters. For the most current PRAKAS and circulars, visit nbc.gov.kh.