AI & Data Centers: Heat is pushing up electricity demand for data centers, worsening air quality and reigniting debate over AI’s environmental footprint. Cambodia–WIPO IP Boost: Commerce Minister Cham Nimul met WIPO chief Daren Tang in Geneva and signed an MoU to set up an Intellectual Property Business Centre to help Cambodia’s private sector use IP for innovation. Global AI Governance: Cambodia joined a UN-led AI governance dialogue with 170+ countries, backing a five-point approach focused on trust, proactive risk control, and inclusive ASEAN-style participation. Anti–Cyber Scam Crackdown: Phnom Penh authorities raided 94 properties, arresting eight foreigners and seizing laptops, phones, and counterfeit cash tied to “pig-butchering” schemes. Cambodia Road Upgrade: Hun Manet inaugurated a 45.5km upgrade on National Road No. 7, promising faster travel, lower logistics costs, and more investment along the corridor. GenAI in ASEAN Work: The ILO says GenAI exposure is significant across ASEAN labor markets, with Cambodia among countries where wage workers with higher exposure earn more. Gold Mining Update: Cambodia mined about 20 tonnes of gold dore bars in five years, with officials stressing the need for stronger environmental safeguards and more local value-add. Digital Payments Link: India and Indonesia agreed to integrate UPI with Indonesia’s payment system, aiming to make cross-border payments and travel easier. Virtual Taekwondo Goes Regional: Virtual taekwondo is growing across Southeast Asia using VR and motion tracking, with a structured competitive push ahead of the Asian Games. SPiCE International 2026: Phnom Penh will host SPiCE International on Nov 5–6, spotlighting Cambodia’s gaming sector amid regulation, sustainability, and investor confidence.