Cambodian Prime Minister bans new casinos in southern provinces

According to the Prime Minister, the ban was introduced with the aim of diversifying investments in various sectors of the economy, such as hotel and restaurant business, tourism, manufacturing, industry, agriculture, trade and the creation of special economic zones (SEZs). Also, one of the reasons stated is the desire to strengthen and encourage the preservation of cultural and religious heritage, improve security and order in tourist destinations.

According to the Cambodian Commercial Gaming Management Commission (CGMC), most casinos are located in the coastal areas of the country. In particular, 48 casinos are located in provinces bordering Thailand, and 35 along the border with Vietnam. In contrast, there is only one casino in the capital Phnom Penh.

The ban on opening new casinos in these provinces is based on Section 19 of the Commercial Gaming Management Act 2020. This law restricts the operation of gambling establishments in certain geographic locations in order to preserve cultural and religious heritage or meet other needs. According to Article 20, the only exceptions are those casinos that already existed in the specified areas before the adoption of the new regulation.

The innovation from the Prime Minister of Cambodia emphasizes a strategic approach to the management of gambling and its distribution throughout the country. The ban on opening new casinos in the southern provinces, except in special cases, is aimed at stimulating economic growth in other sectors and improving public order. It also reflects the desire to preserve cultural and religious heritage, as well as ensure the sustainable development of tourist destinations.