Cambodia customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Cambodia's biggest customs risk is its zero-tolerance drug policy: any amount of marijuana, CBD oil, or kratom can lead to arrest or deportation. Cash over 10,000 USD must be declared. All allowances are per adult traveller; family pooling is not allowed.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine/beer. Must be 18+. Duty-free value: up to 50 USD (approx. 205,000 KHR).
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Declare cash or monetary instruments over 10,000 USD (approx. 41,000,000 KHR) using the Customs Declaration Form at the red channel. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts up to 800 USD (approx. 3,280,000 KHR) in total value. Above this, a flat 35% duty rate applies on the excess value.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, CBD oil, kratom, and any drug paraphernalia)
  • Firearms, ammunition, explosives, and weapons (including replicas and air guns)
  • Pornographic materials (including digital media)
  • Counterfeit currency, goods, and pirated items
  • Endangered species products (ivory, rhino horn, tiger parts, etc.) without CITES permit
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medications containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam, tramadol) – require prior approval from the Ministry of Health
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles – require a permit from the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications
  • Satellite phones and two-way radios – require a license from the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications
  • Plants, seeds, and live animals – require a phytosanitary certificate and import permit
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques – require an export permit from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts

Arriving: red vs green channel

After collecting luggage, proceed to customs. Use the green channel if you have nothing to declare or goods within duty-free limits. Use the red channel if you have goods exceeding allowances, restricted items, or cash over 10,000 USD (approx. 41,000,000 KHR). Fill out a Customs Declaration Form (available at the airport). Random inspections occur.

Tax-free shopping & VAT refunds

Cambodia does not operate a tourist VAT refund scheme for goods purchased locally. No refund is available at departure.

Bringing medication

Personal medications for up to 30 days' supply are allowed without a prescription. For controlled substances (e.g., opioids, sedatives), carry a doctor's prescription and a letter explaining the condition. Some common Western medications like codeine, diazepam, and certain antidepressants are controlled and may require prior approval from the Ministry of Health. Narcotics and psychotropic drugs are strictly prohibited.

Food, plants & animal products

Declare all food, plants, seeds, and animal products. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy are generally prohibited without a phytosanitary certificate. Dried or processed foods (e.g., canned goods, packaged snacks) are allowed for personal use. Honey and spices are permitted in small quantities.

Rules worth knowing

Strict Drug Penalties

Cambodia has zero tolerance for drugs. Possession of even small amounts of marijuana, CBD oil, or kratom can lead to arrest, imprisonment, or deportation. Always check the legality of any medication or supplement before travel.

Cash Declaration Requirement

You must declare any amount over 10,000 USD (approx. 41,000,000 KHR) in cash, traveler's checks, or monetary instruments. Use the Customs Declaration Form at the red channel. Undeclared cash can be confiscated.

Duty-Free Limits Are Per Person

All allowances (alcohol, tobacco, goods) are per adult traveller. Children under 18 do not receive separate allowances for alcohol or tobacco. Family pooling is not allowed.

No Duty-Free Shops at Land Borders

Duty-free allowances apply only to goods purchased abroad and brought in. Land border crossings do not have duty-free shops; allowances are the same as at airports.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, for personal use. You can bring up to 200 ml of e-liquid and one device. However, vaping is banned in public places and can result in fines. Declare it if asked.
No, personal electronics like laptops, cameras, and phones are generally allowed duty-free as personal effects. If you have multiple units (e.g., more than 2 of each), customs may consider them commercial and charge duty.
There is no limit on bringing KHR in or out, but amounts over 10,000 USD equivalent (approx. 41,000,000 KHR) must be declared. Foreign currency over 10,000 USD must also be declared.
No, religious items for personal use are allowed. However, materials that insult the monarchy or Buddhism are prohibited. Avoid any literature critical of the government or religion.
Yes, commercially packaged and sealed snacks, instant noodles, and canned goods are allowed for personal use. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy are prohibited without a permit.
You must declare the excess at the red channel. Duty is charged at a flat 35% on the value above 800 USD. For example, if goods are valued at 1,000 USD, duty is 35% of 200 USD = 70 USD.
No limit for common over-the-counter medicines like paracetamol, ibuprofen, or antihistamines for personal use. Keep them in original packaging. For controlled drugs, carry a prescription.

Official source

General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia before travelling.