Cambodia Investment Review

National Bank of Canada and ABA: A Foreign Investment Success Story in Cambodia

National Bank of Canada and ABA: A Foreign Investment Success Story in Cambodia

Cambodia Investment Review

The National Bank of Canada, the sixth-largest bank in Canada and parent company of ABA Bank, took part in a series of high-level meetings in the United States and Canada, aimed at promoting Cambodia’s investment opportunities. The meetings, part of the Cambodia Investment Roadshow, were led by H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia. A central focus of these discussions was the success story of ABA Bank, one of Cambodia’s largest financial institutions, and a prime example of the positive impact of foreign investment on the country’s economic landscape.

The National Bank of Canada played a key role in organizing the discussions, reinforcing its long-term commitment to Cambodia through its majority stake in ABA Bank, which has seen significant growth since entering the market. ABA’s success underscores the strong relationship between Canadian investors and the Cambodian economy.

Cambodia Investment Roadshow, were led by H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia.

Cambodia’s Investment Climate and ABA’s Role

During the visit, H.E. Sun Chanthol met with Laurent Ferreira, President and CEO of the National Bank of Canada, at the bank’s new headquarters in Montreal. Their discussions centered on Cambodia’s favorable investment conditions, with H.E. Sun Chanthol highlighting the country’s strategic importance for international investors, a supportive regulatory environment, and recent infrastructure improvements.

Read More: ABA Bank Secures $220 Million In Capital Injection, Commits To Country’s Economy

“The sustained investments from National Bank of Canada and ABA Bank are critical to Cambodia’s economic development,” said H.E. Sun Chanthol. “Their ongoing commitment reflects the strength of our investment climate and the opportunities for long-term growth in Cambodia.”

Ferreira praised the partnership and the success of ABA Bank in Cambodia, stating, “ABA’s growth has been underpinned by the solid fundamentals of the Cambodian market. We remain committed to supporting its continued success, investing in digital banking and empowering local businesses. Cambodia’s investment environment provides us with the confidence to deepen our involvement.”

Cambodia Investment Roadshow, were led by H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia.

Capital Infusion and Future Investment Plans

In line with its commitment to ABA’s growth, the National Bank of Canada recently made a $220 million capital infusion into ABA Bank in September 2024. This investment highlights the continued confidence of the bank in Cambodia’s economic future and aims to further ABA’s digital transformation, focusing on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). ABA Bank has emerged as a key player in the Cambodian economy, creating over 9,300 jobs and consistently contributing to financial sector development.

Read More: Canadian Business Community Welcomes Embassy Plan, Sees Boost for Cambodia-Canada Trade Relations

Emily Yu, Chairwoman of the Canadian Chamber of Business in Cambodia (CanCham), emphasized ABA’s importance as a model of successful foreign investment. “ABA Bank exemplifies how Canadian investment can positively shape Cambodia’s economy. The recent capital injection from National Bank of Canada continues to drive ABA’s growth, underscoring the broader role of Canadian investors in fostering sustainable development in Cambodia.”

Cambodia Investment Roadshow, were led by H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia.

Cambodia’s Growing Investment Opportunities

The Cambodian delegation also participated in a roundtable hosted by the National Bank of Canada and the Canada ASEAN Business Council (CABC), which provided an opportunity for Canadian investors to learn more about Cambodia’s growing investment opportunities. The discussions focused on potential collaboration across various sectors, further strengthening ties between the two countries.

As Cambodia continues to attract international investment, ABA Bank’s success story serves as a model for other investors. The ongoing partnership between the National Bank of Canada and ABA Bank is set to play an increasingly important role in Cambodia’s economic growth, particularly in the areas of technological innovation, job creation, and local business support.

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