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Cambodian Riel

Imagine visiting a country where two currencies are commonly used in everyday life. In Cambodia, the Cambodian riel and the United States dollar have circulated alongside one another for many years, creating one of the world's most distinctive monetary systems.

The Cambodian riel is the official currency of Cambodia. Its international currency code is KHR, and it is issued by the National Bank of Cambodia. While the riel serves as the country's legal tender, both the riel and the United States dollar are widely used in everyday transactions throughout much of Cambodia.

Today, the Cambodian riel supports domestic commerce, banking, transportation, tourism, government services, and retail trade. In recent years, the National Bank of Cambodia has continued encouraging greater use of the riel in everyday transactions across the country.

Daily Whoa Snapshot

Category: Currency
Country: Cambodia
Currency Code: KHR
Issued By: National Bank of Cambodia
Known For: Official currency of Cambodia
Importance: Commerce, banking, salaries, trade, and public services

Why the Cambodian Riel Matters

The Cambodian riel is central to Cambodia's financial system. It supports domestic trade, government payments, banking, transportation, education, and everyday purchases made by millions of people across the country.

The currency also reflects Cambodia's economic development. While the U.S. dollar remains widely accepted, the continued use and promotion of the riel strengthens the country's monetary system and national financial identity.

For travelers, understanding the Cambodian riel makes everyday purchases easier. Visitors often receive change in riel even when paying with U.S. dollars, making familiarity with both currencies useful during a trip.

Definition

The Cambodian riel (KHR) is the official currency of Cambodia. Issued by the National Bank of Cambodia, it serves as the country's legal tender and plays an important role in Cambodia's monetary system.

The Daily Whoa

The Cambodian riel is Cambodia's official currency.
Its international currency code is KHR.
The National Bank of Cambodia issues the currency.
The riel commonly circulates alongside the U.S. dollar.
Many everyday purchases involve both currencies.
The Cambodian government continues to encourage wider use of the riel.

History

The Cambodian riel was first introduced in 1953 after Cambodia gained independence from France. Although the currency experienced periods of interruption during the country's turbulent history, it was reintroduced in 1980 and has remained Cambodia's official currency ever since.

Banknotes and Coins

The Cambodian riel primarily circulates as banknotes issued in multiple denominations. Modern notes feature Cambodia's national leaders, cultural landmarks, temples, and important historical symbols while incorporating advanced security features to protect against counterfeiting.

Where You'll Encounter the Cambodian Riel

The Cambodian riel is used throughout Cambodia, from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap to provincial towns and rural communities. Residents and visitors use it for shopping, transportation, dining, accommodation, and countless everyday transactions. In many places, prices may be quoted in both riel and U.S. dollars.

You'll commonly encounter the Cambodian riel through:

Retail stores and supermarkets
Traditional markets
Banks and ATMs
Hotels and guesthouses
Restaurants and cafés
Government offices
Public transportation
Tourism businesses
Business transactions
Everyday purchases

What Makes the Cambodian Riel Special?

It circulates alongside another major currency

One of the Cambodian riel's most distinctive features is its widespread circulation alongside the U.S. dollar. While the riel is Cambodia's official currency, both currencies have long been used in daily commerce, making Cambodia's monetary system unique.

It reflects Cambodia's national identity

Modern riel banknotes feature portraits of Cambodian leaders, famous temples, national monuments, and cultural landmarks that celebrate the country's history and heritage.

Its role continues to grow

The National Bank of Cambodia has introduced initiatives that encourage greater use of the riel in banking, retail payments, and domestic transactions, strengthening the country's national currency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cambodian riel?

The Cambodian riel (KHR) is the official currency of Cambodia and serves as the country's legal tender.

What is the currency code for the Cambodian riel?

The international ISO currency code is KHR.

Who issues the Cambodian riel?

The National Bank of Cambodia is responsible for issuing and regulating the country's currency.

Can visitors use U.S. dollars in Cambodia?

Yes. U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout Cambodia, particularly in cities and tourist destinations, although change is often given in Cambodian riel.

Why should I care about the Cambodian riel?

The Cambodian riel offers insight into Cambodia's economy and its distinctive monetary system. Understanding how the riel works alongside the U.S. dollar helps travelers navigate everyday purchases while appreciating the country's financial development.