Online gambling ceased in 91 casinos the following ban

Friday 10th of January 2020

The Cambodian Ministry of Finance has successfully closed the online gambling operations in 91 casinos across the country, local media reports.

Last year, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen issued a directive to ban all online and arcade gambling in the Kingdom by the end of 2019.

From January 1, authorities began to conduct inspections of all of the nation’s casinos, most of which are located in Preah Sihanouk province. No violations of the ban were immediately discovered.

“I can say that all arcade gambling operations in the Kingdom completely ceased after the ban,” said Ros Phearun, deputy director-general of the ministry’s financial industry department.

“After ceasing online gambling, some casinos are still operating one or two months to see if they can make earnings.”

Phearun said he expects more casinos to cease their business, adding that he notes there are now 118 licensed casinos in the Kingdom.

He said that despite casino closures, it will not seriously impact the Kingdom’s economy and employment.

However, it was earlier reported that more than 7,700 people were left unemployed after 33 casinos suspended all operations and 23 others shut down.

Preah Sihanouk Provincial Hall spokesman Kheang Phearom promised to ensure these individuals receive their last salaries and benefits.

The authority will also continue to inspect casinos to ensure it does not start online operations again.