In Cambodia, casino operators are facing new regulations that will require them to register all gaming equipment by the end of the year or risk having it removed. The Cambodian Commercial Gambling Management Commission (CGMC) is spearheading this effort to regulate and clean up the gaming industry. However, as the regulations are still in draft form, there is uncertainty surrounding their implementation and the mysterious company known as FIRM 614, which currently holds the exclusive rights as the only licensed importer of gaming equipment in the country.
Efforts to regulate and modernize the gaming industry in Cambodia are in full swing. The CGMC is pushing for stricter control over gaming equipment, with operators mandated to register all approved products and remove any equipment older than ten years. This move aims to eliminate illegal or counterfeit equipment, a prevailing issue in Cambodia. A key industry participant noted, “If implemented as intended, this could benefit the entire sector,” addressing the problem of substandard equipment that tarnishes the industry’s credibility.
As reported by Inside Asian Gaming, concerns have been raised regarding the registration process and FIRM 614. This enigmatic entity, dubbed as “the only one for now” by the government, remains a mystery to many in the industry. Its exclusivity in importing gaming equipment has caused unease among suppliers and operators, with questions lingering about potential fees and the possibility of other companies being allowed to join the approved list of importers in the future.
Recently, Malaysian gaming equipment supplier RGB International Bhd announced its partnership with FIRM 614, making the latter the exclusive agent for importing, selling, and distributing gaming equipment to licensed operators in Cambodia. This partnership has added a layer of complexity to the situation, leaving suppliers and casinos wondering about the long-term effects of this monopoly.
Speaking at the IAG Academy Summit in Manila, Deputy Director of the CGMC’s Legal Affairs and Licensing Management Department, Oudam Khim, confirmed FIRM 614’s role, stating, “At this time, we have recognized one firm that we call 614 to coordinate the import of gaming equipment into Cambodia.” He emphasized the need for operators to comply with the regulations by the end of the year, stating, “All equipment that is not registered with the CGMC must be moved out. After that, we need new equipment for the casino industry.”
While Khim hinted at the possibility of licensing other importers as early as next year, providing hope for those concerned about FIRM 614’s exclusive control, operators will have to navigate the uncertainties of the new regulatory environment for the time being.
Despite plans to introduce more competition in the future, the exclusive role of FIRM 614 is causing anxiety among operators. The draft regulations lack clarity on certain aspects, such as import fees and the potential number of future importers. The industry remains on edge as it awaits further developments in this evolving landscape.
