Cambodia Microfinance Leader Urges Investor Support for Inclusive Growth

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.26,2025) — Cambodia must build investor confidence to ensure stability and inclusive progress in its microfinance sector, said Dith Nita, Chairwoman of the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA), during a high-level multi-stakeholder meeting held Sept. 25 in Phnom Penh.

Speaking at the third national consultation on microfinance, Nita emphasized the sector’s continued role in economic development, poverty reduction, and financial inclusion.

“Microfinance remains a vital tool for strengthening the economy and empowering communities,” she said. “We are committed to ensuring equal access to financial services that support human rights and national growth.”

She welcomed partnerships with investors who share CMA’s vision for a sustainable, responsible, and resilient financial system. The association urged both domestic and international stakeholders to actively support ongoing reforms and initiatives that balance profitability with social impact.

The meeting was part of the NBC–UN Multi-Stakeholder Consultation Process, which aims to address challenges such as over-indebtedness and transparency. CMA reaffirmed its commitment to responsible lending and called for broader collaboration to advance Cambodia’s financial ecosystem.

Total outstanding loans across Cambodia’s banking and financial sector reached nearly 60 billion U.S. dollars, reflecting cautious growth of just 3 percent compared to 2023. This slowdown was attributed to tighter lending standards and increased focus on responsible financing. Meanwhile, total deposits climbed to approximately 57 billion U.S. dollars, marking a year-on-year increase of 16.3 percent—an indicator of growing public trust in formal financial institutions.