Cambodia Tightens Crackdown on Online Scams in Special Economic Zones to Safeguard Investment Climate

PHNOM PENH, April 30, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has intensified efforts to combat online scam activities within Special Economic Zones (SEZs), aiming to protect its investment climate and reinforce confidence among investors, officials said Thursday.

Chea Vuthy, Secretary‑General of the Cambodian Investment Board, chaired a meeting with local authorities, the Ministry of Labour and SEZ developers to disseminate measures against technology‑based fraud. 

He said the session focused on raising awareness of the Law on Combating Technology‑Based Fraud and a sub‑decree on security management in concentrated residential areas, while promoting continued SEZ development.

Deputy Secretary‑General Sor Senerna outlined key provisions of the law, stressing developers’ responsibilities to prevent and suppress online scams. Officials emphasized that stronger cooperation between authorities and private stakeholders is vital to safeguarding SEZ integrity and investor confidence.

Vuthy introduced a draft declaration for SEZ developers to sign, affirming their commitment to cooperate in eliminating scams. He said the declaration imposes no new administrative burdens but serves as a formal pledge of partnership with the government, demonstrating collective resolve to eradicate such crimes without exception.

“This commitment reflects a strong partnership with the government and will serve as an important tool to attract further investment into SEZs,” Vuthy said.

He also urged developers lagging in infrastructure progress to accelerate work or risk losing approvals under existing regulations. Officials warned that failure to act could undermine Cambodia’s investment climate, noting that SEZs remain central to the country’s strategy for industrial growth and regional competitiveness.