Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia recently addressed growing criticisms regarding the country’s alleged role in facilitating online gambling operations. During a speech at the closing of the Extraordinary General Assembly of Cambodia Scouts in Phnom Penh on June 17, 2025, the Prime Minister argued that while Cambodia faces heavy blame, some of the countries casting accusations are guilty of similar actions but try to hide it. He suggested that these nations are using Cambodia as a scapegoat, deflecting attention away from their own shortcomings.

Criticism and Double Standards

Hun Manet reportedly emphasized that Cambodia’s critics often accuse the nation of hosting online gambling shelters, yet they are reluctant to acknowledge the existence of such activities in their own borders. The Khmer Times reports that the PM stated, “There are many things that are being spread to Cambodia, especially online things that are also being accused of Cambodia. Look at your own country, it’s not pretty. Some countries like to blame their neighbors for things like this, but their own country is perfect,” said Hun Manet, pointing out what he perceived as hypocrisy in the international community.

The Prime Minister’s remarks came in the midst of a growing border dispute with Thailand, which has taken measures such as cutting off electricity to illicit gambling zones in Cambodia. Thailand has also prohibited Thai workers from crossing into Poipet, a Cambodian city known for its casinos and entertainment operations. Despite these actions, Hun Manet defended his country’s stance, criticizing the double standards of those pointing fingers while failing to address their own internal issues.

Cambodia’s Ongoing Struggle with Online Gambling

Despite the Cambodian government’s 2019 ban on online gambling, concerns persist about the underground operations that continue to thrive. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recently identified Sihanoukville, Cambodia’s popular coastal city, as one of the largest scam hubs in the country. This development has drawn international attention, with the UNODC’s report reinforcing accusations that Cambodia remains a key center for illegal online gambling and scam operations.

In addition to the UNODC’s findings, Cambodian officials have been linked to these illicit activities. Notably, a relative of Hun Manet has been implicated in online scam operations. Thai cyber police have raised concerns over the connections between gambling activities and call-center scam networks, potentially tied to the Huoine Group. However, Hun Manet firmly denied these claims, stressing that they were unfounded and politically motivated.

Banning Online Gambling: Cambodia’s Efforts to Tackle the Issue

While Cambodia took significant steps in 2019 to curb the growing problem by banning online gambling, the Prime Minister’s statements reveal that the issue remains a significant challenge. The ban was part of a larger effort to reduce criminal activity, particularly scams and illicit gambling networks, which had begun to gain prominence in the country. However, the persistence of these underground operations suggests that the battle against illegal gambling is far from over.

Hun Manet reportedly urged a more nuanced approach, suggesting that silence from Cambodians should not be mistaken for inaction. While Cambodians have largely remained quiet in the face of criticism, the Prime Minister stressed that the nation’s response should not be seen as unprofessional or passive. He called for greater mutual accountability among neighboring countries, urging them to face their own issues head-on rather than shifting blame.