The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), in collaboration with Mastercard, launched the Bakong Tourists app on November 11. Supplied
Cambodia is expected to see an increase in international tourist arrivals following the launch of the Bakong Tourists app by the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) in collaboration with international payment company Mastercard. Experts in the sector confirm that digital payment systems are becoming increasingly popular in the country.
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On November 11, NBC announced the app’s official launch, a digital payment solution developed in partnership with Mastercard. The initiative aims to expand the scope of transactions and encourage the use of the app to facilitate foreign tourists’ payments.
According to a press release from the central bank, “The collaboration will enable international tourists to experience convenient digital payments for goods and services by downloading the [app] on their mobile phones upon arrival in Cambodia. They can then top up funds into their Bakong account by linking their Mastercard account issued in their home country. Similarly, local businesses can now offer travellers a seamless and convenient digital payment experience, making transactions faster and more secure.”
The bank further stated that this new milestone contributes to fostering the country’s tourism sector and advancing the digital revolution.
Thourn Sinan, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Cambodia, told The Post on November 12 that digital payment systems are widely understood and used in Cambodia. He said that the addition of an easy-to-use payment system for tourists is expected to significantly draw more visitors.
He also noted that the number of foreign tourists has shown promising growth.
Sinan said, “The introduction of this payment system is another step forward in advancing Cambodia's tourism sector, helping to enhance the attractiveness of the country and facilitate travel for international visitors.”
NBC governor Chea Serey, who participated in the event, noted that the collaboration not only enhances the functionality of the app but also underscores a shared vision of fostering economic growth through the sector.
She stated, “By making it easier for visitors to experience seamless and fast payments, we are contributing to the sustainability and resilience of our tourism industry. Furthermore, it aligns with the [government’s] policies aimed at fostering a digital economy and society.”
Mastercard senior vice-president of Acceptance Solutions Sapan Shah commented that the company is excited to collaborate with the central bank by connecting with the Bakong System to make digital payments more accessible for both tourists and local businesses.
“This collaboration reflects our commitment to supporting the growth of Cambodia's vibrant economy. At the same time, we're helping local merchants embrace cashless transactions, boosting efficiency and reducing the challenges associated with handling cash,” he said.
“This is a major step forward in Cambodia's journey toward a more inclusive and digital economy. By enabling Mastercard holders to top up their Bakong wallets directly through the newly launched tourist app, we're making it easier than ever for visitors to enjoy a hassle-free experience while exploring the country,” he added.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the country received 4.8 million foreign tourists in the first three quarters of 2024, representing a 22.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Foreign visitor ticket sales at Angkor Archaeological Park reached a total of 699,850, a 29.7% increase, generating revenue of $32.5 million, up 30.2%.
The year 2019 is considered the peak year for Cambodia's tourism sector, with 6.61 million foreign visitors and total revenue of $4.92 billion, contributing about 12.1% of the country's GDP.
