Cambodia Prepares New Casino License Renewal Framework

CGMC Moves to Tighten Casino Licensing

Cambodia’s General Secretariat of the Commercial Gambling Management Commission (CGMC) is preparing a new “casino integrity and quality evaluation framework for license renewals” aimed at determining the minimum conditions operators must meet to obtain or renew a casino license.

The framework was discussed during a CGMC meeting on September 4, as authorities seek to establish clearer licensing standards based on existing legislation, regulatory measures and the need to reinforce Cambodia’s commercial gambling sector.

The initiative comes as the government continues a broader crackdown on criminal activities linked to the country’s casino industry.

20 Casino Licenses Revoked

The new licensing framework follows an extensive investigation into Cambodia’s casino sector amid international concerns over scam operations operating from or near licensed gambling venues.

In August, authorities reported that they had reviewed all 195 licensed casinos in the country for potential connections to scam centers. As a result, 20 casino licenses were revoked, while a further 29 licenses were suspended.

The government has maintained that significant progress has been made in dismantling major scam compounds across the country.

The regulatory overhaul is therefore expected to place greater emphasis on the integrity, compliance and operational standards of casino license holders.

Proxy Betting Faces New Restrictions

Cambodia is also preparing additional measures targeting gambling activities conducted through casino-based live streaming.

According to local reports, live-dealer streaming from casinos, commonly associated with proxy betting, is expected to be shut down from October.

Interior Minister Sar Sokha said the measure was requested by Prime Minister Hun Manet amid concerns surrounding online gambling.

Online gambling has been prohibited in Cambodia since January 1, 2020. However, licensed casinos had been permitted to provide live-dealer streaming services to players located overseas under the country’s gaming regulations.

Sokha indicated that the restriction could potentially be lifted in the future, although authorities have not provided a timetable for such a change.

Focus on Compliance and Sector Integrity

The latest measures reflect Cambodia’s efforts to strengthen oversight of its casino industry while addressing concerns over illegal activities and financial crime.

Cambodia was removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in 2023, following a multi-year action plan to improve deficiencies in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing systems.

The country is scheduled to undergo its next FATF evaluation in 2029, as part of a regional assessment group that also includes Macau, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand.

The new casino license renewal framework could become an important component of Cambodia’s broader strategy to improve regulatory standards and reinforce the legitimacy of its commercial gaming sector.