Only One Month Left in 2025 To Renew Your Pawnshop License

On 6 October 2025, the Real Estate Business & Pawnshop Regulator (“Regulator”) issued a notification reminding license holders of the obligation to renew your pawnshop business license in October, November and December of 2025. With only about one month left in 2025, businesses who wish to avoid penalty and operate in compliance with the applicable regulations should quickly apply for license renewal as soon as possible. Please keep in mind that your application for renewal of the license must be submitted to the Regulator 30 days prior to its expiry date.

Applicable Penalties

According to Prakas No. 030 on the Management of the Pawnshop and Transfer as Security Business, the use of an expired license could subject the license holder to a fine of KHR 5,000,000 (approximately USD 1,250). For smaller pawnshops which hold permits, the use of an expired permit may lead to a fine of KHR 2,500,000 (approximately USD 625). Following the imposition of such penalties, if the license or permit holder still fails to renew their license/permit, the authorities have the right to order permanent closure of the business.

In addition, for late submission of the application for renewal, a penalty of KHR 20,000 (USD 5) per day may also be imposed if the application for license renewal is not submitted on time for the first 30 days of late submission. For permit holders, the penalty is KHR 10,000 (approximately USD 2.5) per day for the first 30 days. In the event that the license or permit holder still fails to comply, this amount could be doubled.

Process and Requirements

In order to renew your license or permit, an application must be filed to the Regulator or the applicable provincial department along with the relevant filing fees depending on the type of the approval required. The application should include an application letter, an original copy of the current license/permit, documents evidencing tax compliance and additional information regarding your business operations and the number of employees in the company.

Applicability and Enforcement

Businesses that require a pawnshop license in Cambodia include those engaged in pawnshop business activities where customers pledge their movable/immovable property as collateral for loans. Specifically, the license or permit is mandatory for any commercial activity involving pawning of assets to provide loans with agreed terms for repayment of principals and interest.

Operating a pawnshop without this license is considered an offense and is subject to strict enforcement, including monetary fines ranging from KHR 5,000,000 to KHR 10,000,000 (approximately USD 1,250 to USD 2,500) depending on the type of license required. The licensing process is mandatory prior to commencing business operations.

Recently, the Regulator issued notification on 17 June 2025, reinforcing that any pawnshop business activities without a valid license will face legal penalties. Not only that, but the Regulator has been actively monitoring pawnshop business activities and have strictly imposed penalties towards persons who operate pawnshop activities without a valid license or with expired licenses.

If you are unsure whether your business requires a pawnshop license or if you would like assistance in renewing or applying for a license or permit from the Regulator, please feel free to contact us.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have.