Dr. Chea Serey Highlights Economic Gains, Stability in Talks With IMF Officials

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) — Dr.Chea Serey, governor of the National Bank of Cambodia, welcomed a delegation from the International Monetary Fund’s Article IV mission on Aug. 20, 2025, at the bank’s Wat Phnom headquarters. The delegation was led by Kenichiro Kashiwase, IMF mission chief for Cambodia.

During the meeting, Dr.Chea briefed the delegation on Cambodia’s economic performance, highlighting strong growth in the first seven months of 2025. She emphasized the country’s stable exchange rate and low inflation levels, which have contributed to macroeconomic resilience.

Dr.Chea also noted a recent reduction in U.S. import tariffs to 19% on Cambodian exports, a move she said would enhance the country’s competitiveness and attract further foreign investment. She addressed key challenges, including border disputes, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to peaceful resolution and maintaining national stability.

Kashiwase outlined the mission’s objective to assess Cambodia’s economic conditions and provide policy recommendations aimed at supporting recovery and financial stability. The delegation is scheduled to meet with various ministries and institutions to gather comprehensive data.

Following the courtesy meeting, the IMF team held technical discussions with senior officials at the National Bank of Cambodia, focusing on the country’s economic outlook and ongoing challenges.