Central bank allays dollar concerns

Wed, 15 June 2016
Hor Kimsay

The National Bank of Cambodia responded to rumours yesterday that local banks were no longer accepting US dollar banknotes with minor imperfections, such as small tears, creases or ink stamps, stating that the central bank had not changed its policies.

The clarification came after a post on social media went viral earlier this week, claiming that Cambodian banks were no longer accepting US dollar banknotes unless they were in mint condition. As more Cambodians commented and shared experiences online, it became increasingly confusing as to what banks were and were not accepting.

Hoping to clear up the confusion, the central bank responded by posting an undated copy of its regulations on the acceptance of US dollar and Cambodian riel banknotes on its Facebook page. But as the announcement was made without any explanation, it only appeared to heighten public anxiety, setting off a flurry of speculation and commentary.

Chea Serey, director-general of the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), told the Post yesterday that while there had been no policy changes, the NBC had recently instructed banks to be on the lookout for ink-stained banknotes that could indicate they were stolen from ATM machines.

http://www.phnompenhpost.com/business/c ... r-concerns

No problem, just logged into the PPP website and it was one of the top articles so it seems a few people have taken the news reports the same as your wife.

What was interesting was this comment.....
“We have no obligation by law to facilitate the circulation of the US dollar or any other [foreign] currency in the country,” Serey said. “If there is a concern, then people should switch back to Khmer riel on their own accord.”

I read that to mean, anything can and will happen to the US dollar and if you don't like it use Riel.

I always exchange usd in vietnam n they always stamp at the back, ignorance really breeds confusion n hysteria

At the money changer at Central market, when I change any large amounts [ A$ 500 ] to US $, they always stamp the US dollars with a small stamp.

i once got a note refused somewhere because it had a little stamp mark on it