NPCI International Expands UPI to Cambodia

Why in News?

NPCI International & ACLEDA Bank launch cross-border UPI payments in Cambodia via KHQR, Cambodia’s National QR Code, making Cambodia the 9th nation to adopt UPI services.

• Partnership – NPCI International (India) & ACLEDA Bank (Cambodia).
  • NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) – It is the international arm of the NPCI.
• Platform – Bakong’s KHQR, Cambodia’s national QR code platform.
• It serves as a highly advanced and fully interoperable financial network enabling two‑way cross‑border transactions.
• Phase 1 – Prioritises incoming Indian travellers; Indian travellers can make QR payments at over 4.5 million Cambodian merchants (restaurants, retail, tourist spots).
• Phase 2 – It will become fully bi-directional; that is, Cambodian citizens visiting India will be able to scan millions of UPI QR codes for payments throughout India.

Benefits of UPI

• Enhanced Traveller Convenience – Eliminates the friction of physical currency exchange, carrying large amounts of cash, or navigating unfamiliar foreign exchange fees.
• Economic Boost for Local Merchants – Cambodian businesses gain immediate access to a massive, tech-savvy Indian visitor demographic, driving higher transaction volumes.
• Operational Efficiency – Local merchants will experience optimised cash management, lowered overhead costs associated with physical cash handling, and secure, real-time transaction settlements.

UPI Global Coverage – (8 countries) Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Bhutan, Qatar and Sri Lanka.

Quick Fact

Reference

PIB | NPCI International Launch Cross-Border UPI Payments in Cambodia