Best Crypto Exchanges in Cambodia

Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges in Cambodia

Our team of researchers have tested the 19 crypto exchanges accessible from Cambodia and identified the top options for local investors. This assessment considered factors like compliance with the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), fee structure, available cryptocurrencies and supported KHR deposit methods. Below is a breakdown of the top 5 platforms for Cambodian traders.

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1. Bybit

Bybit is the leading crypto exchange in Cambodia, supporting 1,500 cryptocurrencies for spot, futures and options trading with deep liquidity. The advanced platform supports up to 200x leverage on over 400 derivatives contracts. With a user base of over 54 million, it offers multilingual customer assistance and provides a Cambodian telegram group dedicated to local investors.

In addition to trading, Bybit offers lending, borrowing and staking services, copy trading, a crypto card, demo accounts, Launchpad, trading bots, NFT trading, and TradeGPT, an AI-powered assistant. Its transparent proof-of-reserves is updated regularly to show assets are backed on a 1:1 basis and always accessible. As a global platform, it supports several KHR deposit options.

• Fees: Spot trading fees start at 0.1%, futures maker fee at 0.02%, and taker fee at 0.055%.
• Supported Assets: Over 1,500 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation and Licensing: Bybit operates under global regulations and is available to Cambodian investors.
• KHR Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, ABA, ACLEDA, KHQR, WingMoney and credit or debit cards.

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2. OKX

OKX offers access to DeFi and Web3 services alongside its traditional crypto trading options. With over 350 supported cryptocurrencies, users can engage in spot, margin, and futures trading with zero trading fees on quick conversions. Home to over 30 million customers across Cambodia and 100 other countries, it accepts deposits in KHR and provides a multilingual interface.

It also allows users to participate in staking, liquidity mining, and NFT trading, creating a comprehensive environment for earning and trading digital assets. For those exploring DeFi, OKX’s Web3 wallet supports self-custody, giving users access to decentralized applications (dApps), staking and yield farming. The platform also includes a DEX and bridge aggregator. 

• Fees: Spot trading fees from 0.08%, with no fees on quick conversions.
• Supported Assets: Over 350 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation and Licensing: OKX operates under international regulations, though it is not yet locally licensed in Cambodia.
• KHR Deposit Methods: Credit or debit card

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3. Kraken

Kraken is the top choice for institutional investors in Cambodia, offering a full suite of services tailored to meet the needs of large-scale traders and businesses. It provides access to more than 290 cryptocurrencies, including spot, margin, and futures trading, with 5x leverage. It also offers institutional staking options, allowing users to earn rewards on proof-of-stake assets.

Beyond trading, Kraken offers advanced tools like its Pro interface, low-latency API for seamless integration and OTC desk. Its commitment to transparency is demonstrated through regular proof-of-reserves audits, ensuring client funds are safe. The platform also offers various staking services, giving its users the ability to earn up to 30% APY on their assets. 

• Fees: Maker fees start at 0.16% and taker fees at 0.26%.
• Supported Assets: Over 290 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Globally regulated and available in Cambodia.
• KHR Deposit Methods: Credit or debit cards.

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4. MEXC

MEXC is a great option for futures trading with leverage options up to 200x. The platform offers an extensive selection of over 1,200 cryptocurrencies for spot trading and more than 200 futures pairs. Known for its swift listing of new and trending tokens, it provides users in Cambodia with early access to emerging tokens. It has over $2 billion in daily trading volume across both order books.

The exchange provides services like staking, allowing users to earn passive income on their crypto holdings and copy trading, demo trading, airdrops and a Launchpool. It also frequently hosts events and promotions, including token giveaways and trading competitions, giving Cambodian users opportunities to enhance their returns. 

• Fees: Maker fees are 0%, while taker fees range from 0.01% to 0.02%.
• Supported Assets: Access to over 1,200 cryptocurrencies for spot and futures trading.
• Regulation and Licensing: MEXC operates under international compliance standards but is not locally regulated in Cambodia.
• KHR Deposit Methods: Credit or debit cards.

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5. Gate.io

Gate.io supports over 2,700 cryptocurrencies for trading and staking. The platform supports a wide range of trading options, including spot, margin, and perpetual futures trading, providing users with the flexibility to trade with up to 100x leverage. It provides deep liquidity and rapid listing of new tokens, giving Cambodian traders early access to new altcoins and memecoins.

In addition to trading, Gate.io offers numerous financial products such as staking, lending, and liquidity mining. The exchange also features a startup platform for early-stage crypto projects, enabling users to participate in token sales and earn airdrops. Its comprehensive security infrastructure, including 100% proof-of-reserves and SAFU fund protection

• Fees: Trading fees start at 0.2% for spot trades.
• Supported Assets: Over 2,700 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation and Licensing: Gate.io operates under international compliance standards but is not yet locally regulated in Cambodia.
• KHR Deposit Methods: Bank transfers and credit or debit cards.

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Is Crypto Regulated in Cambodia?

Cryptocurrency is regulated by the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), which oversees the activities of digital asset service providers. In 2018, NBC issued guidelines prohibiting local banks from directly offering trading or acting as custodians for crypto assets. However, it is exploring possibilities for stablecoins like USDT and USDC to be integrated into the banking system.

In 2020, NBC launched the blockchain-based Bakong digital payment system. This move demonstrates the government’s interest in exploring blockchain technology. The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC) adopts a more flexible stance, allowing the trade of certain crypto assets under proper compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) standards.

As Cambodia moves towards greater digitalisation, regulatory cooperation between the NBC and SERC is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of crypto in the country.

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How is Crypto Taxed in Cambodia?

‍As of 2024, Cambodia's tax regulations for digital currencies remain in their early stages, though the General Department of Taxation (GDT) has offered some guidance. Crypto is classified as "intangible assets" rather than legal currency. Gains from the sale or exchange of these assets are subject to a 20% capital gains tax, calculated as the difference between the acquisition cost and the selling price.

Taxpayers in Cambodia are required to report all cryptocurrency transactions in their annual tax returns, ensuring proper documentation, such as transaction receipts, to comply with these regulations. While the legal framework for cryptocurrency taxation is still being developed, the GDT has provided a foundation with guidelines aimed at fostering both compliance and growth within the sector.

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How to Buy Bitcoin in Cambodia

For Cambodian investors interested in purchasing Bitcoin, it’s important to use a secure cryptocurrency exchange that complies with local regulations and accepts KHR deposits. Here’s a guide to help you get started:

1. Create an Account: Start by providing your name and email address to set up an account on a cryptocurrency exchange. You will need to verify your identity with a photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, before you can use the platform.
2. Deposit Funds in KHR: Go to the deposit section of your dashboard. Enter the amount of Cambodian Riels (KHR) you want to transfer and choose your payment method, such as a bank transfer, credit card, or debit card. Review your platform’s fees and limits to understand how long it will take for your funds to be credited.
3. Find Desired Cryptocurrency: To buy Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, enter the coin name or symbol in the search box. For instance, search for BTC to buy Bitcoin. Select the KHR/BTC pair and enter your trade details.
4. Execute Trade: Click the ‘buy’ or ‘trade’ button to purchase your chosen cryptocurrency. Enter the amount you want to buy and complete the trade.

By choosing a secure exchange and following these steps, Cambodian users can buy Bitcoin with confidence while ensuring compliance with the necessary regulations.

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Bottom Line

Choosing the best crypto exchange in Cambodia depends on your personal trading preferences and needs. We recommend selecting platforms that offer strong security, liquidity, and a range of supported cryptocurrencies, such as Bybit, OKX, Kraken, MEXC and Gate.io.

Each of these platforms provides unique features and services that cater to various levels of expertise, giving Cambodian investors the confidence to explore and invest in the growing crypto market.