Cambodia Investment Review
Cambodia took another step towards strengthening its sustainable finance sector with a Capacity Building Workshop on Sustainable Finance and Investor Roadmap held at the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh. The event was organized by the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC), in collaboration with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), the Credit Guarantee and Investment Facility (CGIF), and GuarantCo.
The workshop, attended by 126 participants, including 36 virtual attendees, focused on equipping financial professionals and policymakers with the necessary knowledge and tools to enhance Cambodia’s sustainable finance ecosystem. The event was held under the high presidency of H.E. Sou Socheat, Director General of the SERC, and Ms. Shomi Kim, Country Representative of GGGI in Cambodia.
Promoting Sustainable Finance in Cambodia
The event aimed to provide stakeholders with a deeper understanding of sustainable financial instruments, investment frameworks, and their alignment with Cambodia’s development goals. Discussions also highlighted current and potential investors in sustainable projects and the role of regulatory frameworks in fostering green investments.
H.E. Sou Socheat underscored the critical role of sustainable finance in Cambodia’s economic resilience, stating: “Sustainable finance is no longer a choice but a necessity for Cambodia’s economic resilience and climate action. With a robust sustainable bond market, we can attract responsible investments that support green growth, social equity, and long-term financial stability. Today’s workshop plays an important role in equipping participants with the knowledge and tools needed to drive this transition. This will help Cambodia remain a competitive and sustainable investment destination.”
Growing Cambodia’s Green Finance Market
GGGI Country Representative Ms. Shomi Kim emphasized Cambodia’s progress in sustainable finance, particularly through the Cambodia Bond Accelerator Program (CSBA), which has been instrumental in supporting green bond issuance in the country.
She noted Cambodia’s achievements, including the Royal Group PPSEZ’s issuance of Cambodia’s largest green bond in 2024 and the pipeline of over USD 100 million in green and sustainable bonds. “Sustainable financing and green taxonomy are not new concepts, but rather a paradigm shift towards sustainable investment for Cambodia,” Ms. Kim stated.
“By equipping stakeholders with the right tools, knowledge, and frameworks, we can mobilize investments that align with national development priorities while addressing environmental and social challenges. GGGI remains committed to building a strong ecosystem for sustainable financing that attracts responsible investors and fosters long-term economic prosperity for Cambodia.”
Expert Insights and Industry Participation
The workshop featured speakers and representatives from key financial and regulatory institutions, including the Ministry of Environment, National Bank of Cambodia, Ministry of Economy and Finance, Cambodia Securities Exchange, and Cambodia Association of Securities Firms. Representatives from commercial banks, insurance firms, microfinance institutions, and listed companies also participated.
Industry experts from S&P Global Ratings, S&P Sustainable 1, GGGI, CGIF, Incofin Investment Management, Prudential (Cambodia) Life Assurance, and Royal Group Securities Plc. shared their insights on developing sustainable financial instruments and investment strategies.
The workshop provided a valuable platform for engaging regulators, financial institutions, and investors in discussions about the future of sustainable finance in Cambodia. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to expanding sustainable investment opportunities and strengthening Cambodia’s green financial ecosystem.
