UPI Launch in Cambodia Enables Seamless QR Payments for Indian Travellers

Under the first phase of the rollout, Indian travellers can make QR-based payments at more than 4.5 million merchant locations across Cambodia. The move is expected to simplify transactions for tourists, reduce reliance on cash, and provide a secure and convenient payment experience.

The payment linkage is designed to eliminate the need for carrying large amounts of cash and minimise concerns related to currency exchange fluctuations. Travellers will be able to use digital payments for a wide range of expenses, including shopping, dining, and other retail transactions, enhancing overall convenience during their stay in Cambodia.

Authorities have also outlined plans for the next phase of the initiative, which will establish a fully bi-directional payment corridor between the two countries. Once implemented, Cambodian citizens travelling to India will be able to use their domestic banking and mobile payment applications to scan UPI QR codes and make payments at millions of merchant locations across India.

The development is expected to provide significant benefits to Cambodian businesses by connecting them to India's large and digitally active tourist base. Merchants are likely to witness increased consumer spending, faster transaction processing, and reduced dependence on cash-based operations. Digital payments are also expected to improve operational efficiency through secure, real-time settlements, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises.

UPI was officially launched in Cambodia through a partnership between NPCI International Payments Limited, the international arm of the National Payments Corporation of India, and ACLEDA Bank Public Limited Company. The service was introduced during a formal ceremony in Phnom Penh attended by senior officials, including H.E. Dr Chea Serey, Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia, along with representatives from the Reserve Bank of India.

With Cambodia joining the network, UPI is now accepted in nine countries. The list includes Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Bhutan, Qatar, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. The expansion reflects India's continued efforts to strengthen the global presence of its digital payments infrastructure while making international travel more convenient for Indian citizens.

The launch represents a significant advancement in international digital payment integration, strengthening economic and tourism ties between India and Cambodia while paving the way for a more connected and seamless cross-border payment ecosystem.