PHNOM PENH, Cambodia, March 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a rapidly changing financial landscape, Cambodia's banking sector is emerging as a beacon of trust and innovation. Through significant advancements in digital banking, stringent cybersecurity measures, and transparent regulatory frameworks, the nation is positioning itself as a leader in ethical banking practices.
Digital Banking Surge Enhances Financial Inclusion
Recent data from the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) reveals a notable shift towards mobile banking. In 2024, over 608 million transactions and payments, an increase of 334% from 2023, were made through the Bakong Payment System with the total value of 183 trillion KHR or 457 billion USD, a 127% increase from 2023. This trend underscores a growing consumer preference for accessible and user-friendly mobile platforms, reflecting its widespread adoption. NBC's Bakong System has been instrumental in this digital transformation. By integrating e-wallets, mobile payments, and online banking into a single platform, Bakong has simplified transactions and broadened financial access, particularly in rural areas.
"Digital payments are transforming financial inclusion in Cambodia, especially for underserved communities. By using mobile banking and platforms like the Bakong system, we are making financial services more accessible, affordable, and secure—particularly for those in rural areas," said Ms. Dith Nita, Chairwoman of the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA).
Strengthening Cybersecurity and Regulatory Transparency
To maintain financial stability amid rapid digitalization, Cambodia's banking sector has prioritized cybersecurity and transparent regulatory practices. The Association of Banks in Cambodia (ABC), together with the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA) has been proactive in promoting consumer protection, financial literacy, and industry-wide cybersecurity initiatives, thereby fostering a stable and resilient financial environment.
In a significant regulatory development, NBC has introduced a framework that uses blockchain technology, providing clear guidelines to encourage innovation in digital finance while safeguarding financial stability. This move not only positions Cambodia as a responsible player in the global financial ecosystem but also attracts fintech firms seeking a regulated yet flexible environment for growth.
Commitment to Ethical Banking Practices
Cambodia's financial institutions are dedicated to ethical banking, emphasizing responsible lending and financial inclusion. The NBC-UN Multi-Stakeholder Consultation on Microfinance, held in January 2025, highlighted key reforms such as prohibiting the use of Indigenous Communal Land Titles (ICLTs) as collateral and establishing a Financial Consumer Centre under the ABC and the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA) to assist borrowers in financial distress. These measures underscore the sector's commitment to ethical practices and consumer protection.
ABC Chairman Rath Sophoan said, "As responsible providers, we are committed to ensuring financial access while contributing positively to the well-being of the population, always upholding the principles of transparency, fairness, and social responsibility."
A Model for Regional Banking Excellence
With secure digital platforms, clear regulatory frameworks, and a steadfast commitment to ethical practices, Cambodia's banking sector is setting a high standard in the region. As global investors seek stability and transparency, Cambodia is proving itself as a reliable and innovative financial hub.
By balancing technological advancement with ethical banking, Cambodia's financial institutions are fostering long-term trust, ensuring the country remains a key player in Southeast Asia's financial landscape—ready for the future, yet firmly grounded in stability.
For further details please contact:
ABC Secretariat
Mr. Sok Chan, Head of Financial Inclusion and Public Relations
Email: abc_fi@abc.org.kh
Phone: +855 92 683 330
CMA Secretariat
Mr. Tongngy Kaing, Head of Communications
Email: hcd@cma-network.org
Phone: +855 95 262 111
About ABC
The Association of Banks in Cambodia was formed in 1994 and is recognized by the Royal Government as the official organization to represent the country's private banking sector. Our purpose is to promote constructive dialogue amongst member banks, and to serve as an industry voice to the public and the Government.
About CMA
The Cambodia Microfinance Association is an NGO and professional association that aims to ensure the prosperity and sustainability of the microfinance sector in Cambodia. CMA plays a vital role in creating local and international networks as well as seeking equity and loan funds, new technologies and overseeing conflict resolution between microfinance operators. All of these activities have led each member microfinance institution to become stronger and more successful and thereby attract support from the international market to enable industry expansion.
For media inquiries:
TWPR
Ms. Pheng Kim Hoan, Managing Director
Email: kim@twowaypr.com
Phone: +855 10 455 466
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Cambodia's Banking Evolution: Trust and Innovation at the Forefront
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HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda reveals that Vietnam is becoming an increasingly popular year-end travel choice for families in the region and beyond. Based on searches made between September and November 2025 for stays during December 2025 and January 2026, Agoda recorded a 30% increase in family travel interest to Vietnam compared with the same period the previous year.
Agoda data shows that Vietnam is attracting more international families than ever this winter holiday season. South Koreans take the lead as the top market interested in traveling to Vietnam in December and January, with families from India, Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia rounding out the top five. Notably, Agoda reported that Indian families showcased the highest growth in travel interest to Vietnam during this period, with a 186% increase in searches. Malaysians also, are expressing strong growth in interest, with a 74% increase in searches, highlighting Vietnam's appeal as a family destination in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Families are choosing Vietnam for its storied culture and cuisine, diverse landscapes, and abundance of family-friendly resorts and attractions.
Phu Quoc Island leads as the most sought-after destination among international family travelers with a 47% increase in searches, popular for its sandy beaches, calm waters, and nature parks ideal for multi-generation vacations. Da Nang follows with 42% growth in travel interest, noted for its beaches, soft adventure activities, and access to Ba Na Hills theme park. Nha Trang comes in third place, remaining a favorite for its long coastline, family-oriented resorts, and island experiences. In fourth place, Ho Chi Minh City appeals with its vibrant food scene, entertainment complexes, and day trips to the Mekong Delta. In the north, Hanoi continues to draw families with its cultural landmarks, museums, and festive atmosphere, rounding out the top five most family-friendly year-end destinations in Vietnam.
Meanwhile, although Vietnamese families traditionally travel less internationally at the end of the year – typically preferring to wait for the Lunar New Year - China is becoming a noticeable exception. Among the top 20 outbound destinations preferred by Vietnamese families during the December-January period, searches for Shanghai increased 58%, while Beijing increased 59%. This shift is supported by the launch of new direct routes between Hanoi and selected Chinese cities earlier this year, making end-of-year overseas trips more accessible than ever.
Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director at Agoda, said: "It is wonderful to see Vietnam increasingly chosen as an end-of-year holiday destination for families from across Asia and beyond. Agoda's data shows that travelers are recognizing Vietnam's family-friendly appeal, which further strengthen its position on the global travel map. As more families plan their festive-season or year-end getaways, we are delighted to support them through Agoda's simple, intuitive platform and our wide range of stays, flights, and activities."
With over 6 million properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, all bookable in one seamless itinerary, Agoda helps families plan memorable year-end holidays, whether they choose a peaceful beach break, a cultural city escape, or an international exploration to mark the close of the year.
HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda reveals that Vietnam is becoming an increasingly popular year-end travel choice for families in the region and beyond. Based on searches made between September and November 2025 for stays during December 2025 and January 2026, Agoda recorded a 30% increase in family travel interest to Vietnam compared with the same period the previous year.
Agoda data shows that Vietnam is attracting more international families than ever this winter holiday season. South Koreans take the lead as the top market interested in traveling to Vietnam in December and January, with families from India, Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia rounding out the top five. Notably, Agoda reported that Indian families showcased the highest growth in travel interest to Vietnam during this period, with a 186% increase in searches. Malaysians also, are expressing strong growth in interest, with a 74% increase in searches, highlighting Vietnam's appeal as a family destination in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Families are choosing Vietnam for its storied culture and cuisine, diverse landscapes, and abundance of family-friendly resorts and attractions.
Phu Quoc Island leads as the most sought-after destination among international family travelers with a 47% increase in searches, popular for its sandy beaches, calm waters, and nature parks ideal for multi-generation vacations. Da Nang follows with 42% growth in travel interest, noted for its beaches, soft adventure activities, and access to Ba Na Hills theme park. Nha Trang comes in third place, remaining a favorite for its long coastline, family-oriented resorts, and island experiences. In fourth place, Ho Chi Minh City appeals with its vibrant food scene, entertainment complexes, and day trips to the Mekong Delta. In the north, Hanoi continues to draw families with its cultural landmarks, museums, and festive atmosphere, rounding out the top five most family-friendly year-end destinations in Vietnam.
Meanwhile, although Vietnamese families traditionally travel less internationally at the end of the year – typically preferring to wait for the Lunar New Year - China is becoming a noticeable exception. Among the top 20 outbound destinations preferred by Vietnamese families during the December-January period, searches for Shanghai increased 58%, while Beijing increased 59%. This shift is supported by the launch of new direct routes between Hanoi and selected Chinese cities earlier this year, making end-of-year overseas trips more accessible than ever.
Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director at Agoda, said: "It is wonderful to see Vietnam increasingly chosen as an end-of-year holiday destination for families from across Asia and beyond. Agoda's data shows that travelers are recognizing Vietnam's family-friendly appeal, which further strengthen its position on the global travel map. As more families plan their festive-season or year-end getaways, we are delighted to support them through Agoda's simple, intuitive platform and our wide range of stays, flights, and activities."
With over 6 million properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, all bookable in one seamless itinerary, Agoda helps families plan memorable year-end holidays, whether they choose a peaceful beach break, a cultural city escape, or an international exploration to mark the close of the year.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Agoda Data Shows Vietnam Rising as a Favorite End-of-Year Destination for Families Across Asia and Beyond
