In August, the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) launched the ‘Bakong Tourists App’, designed to facilitate payments for foreign tourists across Cambodia by using the country's universal KHQR code. This application is accepted at over 3.3 million retail locations throughout the country.
NBC Governor Chea Serey led the soft launch of the application at a ceremony in Siem Reap. The event was attended by representatives from various ministries and institutions such as the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Interior, and Ministry of Post and Telecommunications, alongside stakeholders from the private sector.
The Bakong Tourists App aims to enhance Cambodia's tourism industry by providing international visitors with a streamlined and convenient electronic payment option. NBC Governor Serey also mentioned plans to partner with an international settlement company to link Bakong Tourists accounts with international payment cards. Agreements were made with Malaysia and South Korea in September to allow users in respective countries to make their cross-border payments via Cambodia's Bakong app.
The tourism sector along with garment production, footwear manufacturing, agriculture, construction and real estate represent the leading industries in Cambodia’s economy. The sector’s significance is highlighted by the country’s cultural heritage, historical sites and natural attractions. In the first half of 2024, Cambodia saw 3.16 million international tourists, marking a 23% increase from the previous year.
