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Siem Reap Eases Tourist Payments as Cathay United Bank Launches Digital Solution

- Saturday, April 26, 2025

Cathay United Bank Cambodia’s CPL Platform: A Game-Changer for the Hospitality Industry

As Cambodia’s tourism sector continues its strong post-pandemic recovery, Cathay United Bank Cambodia (CUBC) has introduced an innovative digital payment solution designed to empower local hospitality businesses. The CUBC Payment Link Portal (CPL), launched in partnership with Mastercard, provides a seamless, secure, and cost-effective way for hotels, tour operators, and other tourism providers to accept international online payments—without the need for a dedicated website or app.

Why Hospitality Businesses Should Adopt CPL Now

With Cambodia welcoming 6.7 million international tourists in 2024—surpassing pre-pandemic levels—the demand for convenient and secure digital payment options has never been higher. Businesses that integrate CPL can:
✔ Boost direct bookings by offering secure online payments via Visa and Mastercard.
✔ Enhance customer trust with EMV 3DS 2.0 authentication, reducing fraud risks.
✔ Save costs by eliminating the need to develop their own payment gateways.
✔ Access promotional benefits if they sign up before the end of the year.

Hospitality providers interested in adopting CPL can learn more by visiting any CUBC branch or checking the bank’s official channels.


How CPL Supports Cambodia’s Tourism Growth

1. Secure & Fraud-Protected Transactions

International travelers increasingly prefer secure digital payments when booking accommodations, tours, and experiences. The CPL platform integrates advanced fraud protection through EMV 3DS 2.0 authentication, ensuring safe transactions for both businesses and customers.

2. No Website or App Required

Unlike traditional payment systems that require merchants to maintain their own websites or apps, CPL allows businesses to generate payment links instantly. These links can be shared via SMS, email, or messaging apps (Telegram, WhatsApp, Line), making it easier for travelers to book and pay directly.

3. User-Friendly Features for Tourism Businesses

The platform is tailored specifically for Cambodia’s hospitality sector, offering:
✅ Pre-set product lists (eliminating repetitive manual entry).
✅ Automated booking confirmations & payment notifications (sent via email/messaging).
✅ Real-time transaction tracking across devices (desktop, tablet, mobile).
✅ Easy financial reconciliation for smoother back-office operations.


Meeting the Needs of Modern Travelers

Mr. Kevin Yeh, President of Cathay United Bank Cambodia, highlights a key trend: international tourists increasingly prefer personalized experiences—such as local market tours, cooking classes, and eco-adventures—but often struggle to book and pay for them in advance.

“Many small and mid-sized hospitality providers lack the digital infrastructure to accept secure online payments,” Yeh explains. “CPL bridges this gap, allowing businesses to secure advance bookings while offering exclusive perks like free upgrades or added services.”

By adopting CPL, Cambodian tourism operators can:
🔹 Compete with global OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) by enabling direct bookings.
🔹 Increase revenue by offering customized packages and early-bird discounts.
🔹 Enhance customer satisfaction with smoother, more secure transactions.


Cambodia’s Tourism Boom: A Digital Payment Opportunity

Cambodia’s tourism revival is undeniable:

  • Siem Reap and Phnom Penh were named among TripAdvisor’s “Top 25 Travel Destinations in Asia.”
  • Coastal and eco-tourism hotspots (Kampot, Kep, Koh Rong) are gaining popularity.
  • International visitors increasingly seek digital-first booking experiences.

For local businesses, this means adapting to digital payment trends is no longer optional—it’s essential for growth.


How CPL Works: A Simple 3-Step Process

  1. Create a Payment Link – Merchants set up their services (hotel stays, tours, etc.) on the CPL platform.
  2. Share the Link – Send the secure payment URL to customers via email, SMS, or messaging apps.
  3. Receive Payment – Customers pay via Visa/Mastercard, and funds are securely processed.

No coding, no complex integrations—just a fast, efficient way to accept global payments.


CUBC & Mastercard: Driving Cambodia’s Digital Tourism Economy

Since its establishment in Cambodia in 2023Cathay United Bank has been at the forefront of digital financial innovation. The CPL platform, developed in collaboration with Mastercard, is the latest step in supporting Cambodia’s tourism sector with cutting-edge, secure payment solutions.

For hospitality businesses looking to stay competitive, reduce costs, and attract more international visitorsCPL offers the perfect solution.

Act Now: Limited-Time Promotional Offers

Businesses that sign up for CPL before year-end can access exclusive benefits. Visit any CUBC branch or check their official website for details.