Number of licenced casinos in Cambodia at 87

Since the implementation of the country’s gambling law in 2021, the number of licensed casinos in Cambodia has reached 87. According to Khim Oudam, a representative of the Cambodian Commercial Gambling Management Commission (CGMC), this development demonstrates the successful implementation of stricter regulations within the industry.

During a panel discussion at the IAG Academy Summit, Khim Oudam, who serves as the Deputy Director of the Legal Affairs and Licensing Department for the CGMC, shared this information. He emphasized that this reduction in the number of casinos operating in Cambodia was significant, particularly when compared to the previous tally of more than 200 casinos operating prior to the implementation of the new law.

Oudam explained the change by stating it was difficult to limit the number of casinos that invested in Cambodia under the previous law. Thus, a greater number of casinos in the past but not all of them are licensed. Nonetheless, the new law imposed strict requirements.

Under the new regulations, standard casinos must have a minimum capitalization of $100 million and integrated resorts must have a minimum capitalization of $200 million. As a result, many lesser casinos are unable to satisfy these requirements and are being compelled to close.

In 2021, Cambodia passed the Law on the Management of Integrated Resorts and Commercial Gambling (LMCG), which regulates casinos. It established a variety of regulatory measures, including the division of Cambodia into three distinct gaming zones where gambling is either prohibited, permitted, or encouraged.

A new gross gambling revenue (GGR) levy of 4% for VIP gaming and 7% for bulk gaming was also imposed by the law. Khim Oudam confirmed that casino proprietors are now required to disclose their GGR directly, with tax obligations collected on a monthly basis based on this revenue.

Original story by: IAG