Cambodia and Japan launch phase I of cross-border QR payment cooperation

Economy and Industry

Cambodia and Japan launch phase I of cross-border QR payment cooperation ACLEDA Bank Plc, the first listed Commercial Bank in Cambodia, has launched a cross-border QR code payment cooperation between Cambodia and Japan. The initiative, initiated by the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) and the Payments Japan Association (PJA), aims to enhance transaction security, facilitate seamless cross-border payments, stimulate tourism, reduce cash usage, and save time during visits to either country. The collaboration is structured in two phases: Phase 1 will enable Cambodian users to make payments in Japan by scanning JPQR, and Phase 2 will enable Japanese users to pay in Cambodia by scanning KHQR. This initiative is expected to boost trade, investment, and tourism, fostering economic growth in both countries. ACLEDA Bank will collaborate closely with public and private sector partners and relevant institutions to ensure successful implementation of the cross-border QR code payment interoperability between KHQR and JPQR. (Source: Cambodia Investment Review)

SERC drives capital market growth through increased equity listings A Cambodian delegation participated in two key forums in Japan, focusing on strengthening regional financial cooperation, accelerating digital integration, and advancing cross-border market infrastructure across ASEAN+3 economies. The SERC delegation participated in the 32nd Cross-Border Settlement Infrastructure Forum (32nd CSIF) and the 43rd ASEAN+3 Bond Market Forum (43rd ABMF) in Kyoto, Japan. The 43rd ABMF focused on advancing the ASEAN bond market initiative through sustainable financing, digitalization, and stronger capital market integration to support resilient economic growth across the ASEAN+3 region. The forum featured three sessions: building a sustainable society, enhancing digitalisation and sustainability disclosure, and reviewing recent developments under the Asian Bond Market Initiative. Both CSIF and ABMF events were co-organised by the Center for Southeast Asian Studies and the Graduate School of Management of Kyoto University, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank. (Source: Khmer Times)

Cambodians shift to local milk following ban on Thai imports Cambodians and beverage vendors are increasingly turning to locally produced dairy products following the government's ban on imports from Thailand, including milk. Khieu Ratana, a coffee seller in Phnom Penh, expressed confidence that the ban would not affect his business as he has already transitioned to using locally produced milk. Another coffee vendor echoed this sentiment, stating that Cambodia is fully capable of producing milk for domestic consumption. Pich Thida, a housewife in Phnom Penh, said it has been difficult to find fresh milk in some supermarkets and marts due to high demand and limited supply. The General Department of Immigration, Ministry of Interior, has implemented a measure preventing the transportation of all types of goods to enter, exit, or cross any international or regional gate along the Cambodia-Thailand border. Prime Minister Hun Manet said that Cambodia continues to achieve steady economic growth and can ensure food security for both domestic consumption and export. (Source: Khmer Times)

Corporate News

Soundskool and KMH Foundation introduce music scholarship program in Cambodia Soundskool Music and the KMH Foundation have signed an MoU to expand access to high-quality music education in Cambodia. The partnership aims to provide comprehensive music scholarship programs for talented Khmer students, focusing on families, education, youth, the arts, and music development. The MoU establishes a framework for funding partners to engage in meaningful CSR initiatives, with a focus on families, education, youth, the arts, and music development. With the support of external corporate and individual sponsors, the partnership provides full scholarships covering tuition, learning materials, supervised practice, and opportunities to perform publicly. The KMH Foundation will ensure transparency and compliance in fund management, while Soundskool will oversee program delivery across its Phnom Penh and Siem Reap campuses. The Soundskool Music Scholarship is guided by four key pillars, with each scholarship part of a direct sponsorship model. The partnership represents a shared vision for Cambodia where music is not a luxury but a tool for education, confidence, and connection. (Source: Cambodia Investment Review)

Stock Market

CSX index slips 0.08% despite gains in PEPC and PAS On 04 July 2025, the CSX Index declined by 0.08%, closing at 405.4 points. On the Main Board, PEPC (+2.29%) and PAS (+0.34%) posted gains, while GTI (-4.57%), MJQE (-0.50%), and PWSA (-0.30%) recorded losses. PPAP, PPSP, ABC, and CGSM remained unchanged. On the Growth Board, DBDE and JSL rose by 0.49% and 4.73%, respectively. Total trading volume reached 165,720 shares, with a turnover of KHR 802 million. (Source: YSC Research)

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