Good news for Indian travellers planning a trip to Cambodia! In a bid to boost cross-border digital payments and tourism, Cambodia has officially become the ninth country to accept UPI payments. This means Indian travellers can make payments using India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), making things so much easier. The move is expected to make travel across the Southeast Asian nation more convenient. This comes as a partnership between NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the global arm of India’s National Payments Corporation, and Cambodia’s ACLEDA Bank. Under this, Indian travellers can use their present UPI-enabled apps to make QR-code payments across Cambodia. They can scan KHQR codes which is the country’s national QR payment standard.Letโs find out more about this:Over 4.5 Million Merchants Now Accept UPIAs per official announcements, Indian visitors can make digital payments at more than 4.5 million merchant outlets across Cambodia including at hotels, restaurants, retail stores, tourist attractions and transportation services. Now this saves travellers from carrying large amounts of cash. In the next phase, Cambodian travellers India are expected to make payments using Cambodia’s domestic payment applications at UPI-enabled merchants across India.What it means for Indian travellers
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Cambodia is one of the most favourite destinations among Indians. The country is known for its affordable accommodation, UNESCO-listed attractions and rich cultural heritage. But currency exchange often remained a concern. But the problem is solved now. This reduces dependence on cash and also helps travellers to save some bucks.How to use UPI in CambodiaOpen UPI-enabled application Scan the KHQR code.Verify the amount.Complete the transaction using your UPI PIN.Receive payment confirmation.Other countries that receive UPI payments:
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SingaporeUnited Arab EmiratesFranceMauritiusNepalBhutanQatarSri LankaCambodiaWhat travellers should rememberThough UPI payments are accepted, travellers must carry enough cash and card in case of emergency. It is also advisable to check with your bank regarding international UPI usage and ensure your app is updated before departure.Sources: Press Information Bureau (PIB), RBI announcement.