Phnom Penh:Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea expressed gratitude to the financial sector for its efforts in addressing priority actions to enhance lending standards and client protection. This acknowledgment was made during his speech at the First National Forum on Financing for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises 2026 held in Phnom Penh.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Deputy Prime Minister welcomed the progress announced by the Association of Banks in Cambodia and the Cambodia Microfinance Association in a joint statement made last week. He highlighted that the National Bank of Cambodia and the United Nations had identified 22 priority actions, of which 16 have already been implemented.

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the need for continuous strengthening of these advancements, noting that improved credit could fortify enterprises without merely increasing their debt. He encouraged the financial sector to continue exploring ways to meet the actual needs of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

H.E. Sok Chenda Sophea urged banking and financial institutions to develop innovative financial products and risk-reduction mechanisms. He suggested the introduction of credit guarantee instruments, risk-sharing, flexible financial products, and advisory services as means to create opportunities while maintaining prudence.