Cambodia will officially begin operating fifth-generation mobile telecommunications, or 5G, from January 1, 2026, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications.
The ministry said the service is being developed in cooperation with the three major mobile operators—Cellcard (CamGSM), Metfone (Viettel Cambodia) and Smart (Smart Axiata)—to construct telecommunications towers and install 5G equipment at designated locations.
Customers of the three operators can begin using 5G from 00:01 on January 1, 2026. In the initial phase, service will be introduced in Phnom Penh and selected key areas of Siem Reap, Kandal, Svay Rieng, Kampong Speu, Takeo, Kampong Cham, Kampong Thom, Prey Veng, Kratie, Kampong Chhnang, Pursat, Preah Sihanouk, Stung Treng and Kampot provinces.
The ministry said 5G coverage would expand further in subsequent stages towards all provinces nationwide. It considers fifth-generation mobile service important for advancing the digital transformation of the economy and society, in line with the first phase of the Pentagonal Strategy, the Cambodia Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021–2035 and the Cambodia Digital Government Policy 2022–2035.
Alongside high-speed internet, 5G allows more devices to connect simultaneously, offers low response latency and helps improve the efficiency of digital public services. The ministry also sees it as digital infrastructure supporting Cambodia's future digital innovation and new opportunities.
The Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications called on the public to learn about and experience the new 5G service being introduced in Cambodia.
By: Chinta Titi
