NBC Prioritizes Debt Relief for Frontline Soldiers, Urges Patience from Displaced Civilians

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Jan. 2, 2026) — The National Bank of Cambodia has directed commercial banks and microfinance institutions to prioritize loan exemptions and restructuring for frontline soldiers, while urging displaced civilians to remain patient as financial institutions manage a surge in debt relief requests tied to the Cambodia–Thailand border conflict.

In a statement Friday, the central bank said applications for loan relief have risen sharply following the mass displacement of civilians and the deployment of troops defending national sovereignty.

The bank emphasized that requests from frontline soldiers will be fast tracked to encourage and support troops serving in border protection missions. Soldiers who have already filed applications but have not received responses were advised to contact the National Bank directly for assistance.

Sok Chan, head of public relations at the Association of Banks in Cambodia, said member banks are committed to implementing the directive.

Head of Public Relations at the Association of Banks in Cambodia Sok Chan.

“We are prioritizing requests from frontline soldiers. We respectfully ask displaced civilians for understanding if there are delays in debt relief and loan restructuring procedures,” he said.

Kaing Tongngy, communications director of the Cambodian Microfinance Association, said the sector is working with member institutions to facilitate repayment exemptions and restructuring for both soldiers and displaced civilians.

“We encourage frontline soldiers and displaced civilians not to be overly concerned about their loans. Please prioritize your safety and well being. The microfinance sector will continue to assist within our capacity,” Tongngy said.

He added that borrowers facing difficulties should contact their lending institutions directly for support.