Cambodia pushes for women’s role in capital markets

PHNOM PENH, April 1, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is intensifying efforts to boost women’s participation in its capital markets, with regulators warning that inclusion is key to financial resilience.

The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC) urged public and private stakeholders to expand opportunities for women as investors, entrepreneurs and financial leaders.

“Inclusion is not optional; it is essential for development,” said Sou Socheat, SERC’s director general, at the “Ring the Bell for Gender Equality 2026” event. “Empowering women in the capital market will unlock new sources of growth and strengthen the financial ecosystem.”

Women already account for nearly half of Cambodia’s investor base — about 30,000 participants as of 2025 — but remain underrepresented in boardrooms and decision-making roles. Analysts say structural barriers, including limited access to financing and networks, continue to hold back women-led businesses, particularly SMEs.

SERC is working with partners such as the Asian Development Bank and UNDP to update guidelines for thematic bonds, including green and social bonds, later this year. Enhanced disclosure rules on gender indicators within ESG frameworks are due by 2027, alongside a strengthened corporate governance code.

Australia’s development counsellor in Phnom Penh, Kirsty Harris, said women’s economic empowerment is a priority in Canberra’s aid strategy.

Globally, less than 1% of the $11–13 trillion flowing through procurement systems reaches women-owned firms, while losses in human capital due to gender inequality are estimated at more than $160 trillion.

Officials say ensuring equal participation will be critical not only for fairness but also for Cambodia’s long-term competitiveness.