IMF Wants Tighter Casino Ownership Checks in Cambodia

Cambodia faces pressure to tighten casino ownership checks before a large group of licences comes up for renewal around 2027. The IMF says current rules leave major gaps in how authorities assess casino owners and funding sources.

Good to Know

• More than 100 licensed casinos still operate in Cambodia.
• Authorities revoked 18 casino licences and suspended nine more during September.
• The IMF wants beneficial owners and shareholders covered by stronger fit and proper checks.

Casino Licence Renewals Put Ownership Rules in Focus

Cambodia already plans to reduce casino numbers and tighten licensing standards. Prime Minister Hun Manet recently described the current total of more than 100 licensed casinos as “excessive” and ordered authorities to reassess approval and renewal requirements.

Enforcement has also accelerated. Authorities confirmed in September that they had revoked licences from 18 casinos linked to online scam activity and suspended nine others while investigations continue. Officials are also reviewing licensed casinos for possible links between legitimate businesses, scam proceeds and money laundering.

Against that backdrop, the IMF sees the 2027 renewal cycle as a chance to introduce tougher ownership tests.

“Most existing licences are expected to be renewed around 2027, offering a good opportunity to review the licensees against upgraded requirements,” the IMF said.

Current Cambodian law requires major shareholders with stakes of at least 10% and senior managers to demonstrate a good reputation, honesty and integrity. However, the IMF found that assessments by the Commercial Gambling Management Commission of Cambodia generally do not extend beyond criminal record certificates supplied by applicants.

The IMF also identified the lack of fit and proper requirements for beneficial owners and the absence of checks on legitimate sources of funds as major vulnerabilities across casino, banking and payment institution licensing. It called fixing those gaps a top priority.

Cambodia already has work underway. The CGMC is developing an integrity and quality assessment framework for casino licence applications and renewals, with minimum suitability requirements expected to form part of future reviews.

The casino reforms form part of a wider financial integrity effort. The IMF said persistent scam activity and weaknesses in licensing remain risks for Cambodia, while economic growth is forecast to slow to 3% in 2026 before reaching 4% in 2027.

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