The initiative was formally launched at an event in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, attended by Chea Serey, Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), along with representatives from the Reserve Bank of India.

The rollout marks the first phase of a cross-border QR payment linkage between India and Cambodia, enabling seamless digital transactions between the two countries.

Under this phase, Indian travellers can now scan KHQR codes at more than 4.5 million merchant locations across Cambodia. This allows secure, real-time QR-based payments through UPI-enabled apps at tourist attractions, restaurants, retail outlets, and other merchant establishments.

In the next phase, Cambodian visitors to India will be able to make payments at millions of UPI-enabled QR merchant locations across the country using their domestic banking or payment applications, creating a two-way interoperable payment corridor.

The initiative is expected to enhance real-time, interoperable digital payments between India and Cambodia, improving transaction efficiency and reducing dependence on cash. Cambodian merchants will also gain access to a wider base of Indian consumers, alongside improved cash management and operational efficiency.

By enabling trusted cross-border digital payments, the collaboration is expected to boost convenience for travellers while strengthening tourism and commercial ties between the two countries.

Ritesh Shukla, MD & CEO of NPCI International, said the initiative marks a significant milestone in extending India’s digital payment ecosystem globally. He noted that UPI acceptance in Cambodia will provide Indian travellers with a familiar and secure payment experience abroad while offering Cambodian merchants access to a large digital-first consumer base.

Dr. In Channy, President and Group Managing Director of ACLEDA Bank, said the partnership represents a key step in Cambodia’s digital transformation journey. He added that the integration of payment systems will reduce transaction friction, improve settlement efficiency, and support financial inclusion while strengthening the economic corridor between the two nations.