The Cambodian Commercial Gambling Management Commission (CGMC) has implemented a major regulatory initiative by establishing 13 on-site regulatory offices within licensed casinos. This move, in line with the latest Commercial Gambling Management Law, aims to strengthen industry oversight, ensuring that gambling operations adhere to legal and compliance standards.
Officially enacted on November 14, 2020, the law provides a comprehensive regulatory framework for Cambodia’s gambling sector, promoting greater transparency and operational efficiency. CGMC shared this development with Asia Gaming Brief (AGB), a leading market intelligence agency for the Asia-Pacific gaming industry.
Strengthening Compliance and Management
CGMC emphasized that these on-site regulatory offices are a key addition to the country’s gambling oversight infrastructure. Their establishment will enhance casino management, increase transparency, and improve law enforcement efficiency. Under the new regulations, casino operators must strictly comply with licensing requirements, ensuring that:
- All employees hold valid operating licenses.
- All gaming equipment and software are officially certified and registered.
In addition, CGMC plans to introduce a Casino Management System (CMS) to enhance digital oversight and regulatory capabilities. According to CGMC Technical Advisor Chhoeng Chantha, since the Commercial Gambling Management Law came into effect in 2020, government oversight of the gambling sector has intensified significantly. The licensing process now involves thorough financial assessments and rigorous background checks on investors and management teams.
Pilot Program Expansion
To ensure the successful implementation of these regulatory measures, CGMC initiated a pilot program in December 2023, selecting 10 casinos for the first phase of on-site regulatory offices. The program has since expanded to 13 licensed casinos, further solidifying Cambodia’s regulatory framework for the gambling industry.
A Shift Towards Modernized Oversight
According to AGB’s analysis, this initiative demonstrates Cambodia’s commitment to improving industry compliance and governance. The introduction of on-site regulatory offices is expected to streamline administrative processes, strengthen enforcement, and foster a more structured and transparent regulatory environment. Industry experts believe this marks Cambodia’s transition from a previously lenient oversight system to a more modern, structured, and internationally aligned regulatory model.
Aiming for Sustainable Growth
As Cambodia’s primary gambling regulatory body, CGMC is responsible for issuing licenses, enforcing compliance, and cracking down on illegal gambling activities. While some regulatory implementations were delayed due to the pandemic, the Cambodian government has accelerated its efforts since 2022 to establish a globally recognized gambling management system. These efforts aim to promote the long-term sustainability of the legal gambling industry while contributing to Cambodia’s overall economic development.
