said Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet restoring his country’s international reputation has been one of his administration’s greatest challenges. Speaking at the 3rd National Day of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Phnom Penh, he described efforts to improve Cambodia’s global image following negative publicity surrounding online fraud operations as a costly endeavor. “war to restore reputation.”
The government continues to clamp down on fraudulent operations
Hun Manet called on the provincial government to continue pursuing online fraud networks across the country, and described these efforts as critical to protecting Cambodia’s international reputation and creating a safe environment for businesses and visitors.
According to the Khmer Times, he said the authorities would continue to do so "firm” in dealing with online fraud because these activities undermine investor confidence and damage the country’s business climate.
The government’s campaign intensified throughout 2025 and 2026. Data released by the Commission to Combat Online Fraud shows authorities targeted more than 500 suspected fraud locations nationwide between the start of 2025 and June 22, 2026.
These law enforcement efforts also impact the country’s regulated gambling sector. Authorities reported that 25 casino licenses had been revoked or suspended during the crackdown.
The focus on casinos broadened after Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Aun Pornmoniroth instructed relevant government agencies to conduct a comprehensive review of casino operations across Cambodia.
Speaking at a seminar on gaming regulation and efforts to combat online fraud, Aun Pornmoniroth warned against that casinos found to be involved in online fraud or other illegal activities may lose their operating licenses. As chairman of the Commercial Gambling Management Commission, he said licensing compliance would remain under careful review.
Tourism and investment issues remain in focus
The government’s enforcement campaign comes as Cambodia seeks to reverse the impact of online fraudulent activity on its international image. Hun Manet said eliminating these criminal networks was necessary to strengthen public confidence and restore confidence among investors and the international community.
This problem is also burdening the country’s tourism industry. International tourist visits to Cambodia declined by 47.8% during the first five months of 2026. A local tourism executive recently attributed the decline to negative publicity surrounding the fraud center and the ongoing border dispute with neighboring Thailand.
International attention has also increased following Amnesty International’s allegations earlier this year that Cambodia renewed the licenses of 12 casinos despite claims of serious human rights violations linked to fraudulent operations. In response, the government identified combating online fraud as one of its highest priorities and continued to expand enforcement measures.
Officials believe stronger oversight of casino operations, continued action against fraud rings, and stricter regulatory enforcement will help improve Cambodia’s international reputation while creating a safer environment for tourism, investment, and legitimate business activities.
Hun Manet also reiterated Cambodia’s position on its border dispute with Thailand, stating that countrywill continue to protect its sovereignty while conducting peace negotiations. He said unresolved issues must be addressed through international legal mechanisms if necessary and emphasized that both countries must remain patient and avoid the use of force to maintain regional stability.
