Kingdom’s commercial banks back central bank’s emergency liquidity directive

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 23, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s banking sector has voiced strong support for a new emergency liquidity directive from the central bank, describing it as a timely measure to reinforce confidence and safeguard financial stability.

Toch Chao Chek, Board Member of the Association of Banks in Cambodia and CEO of Cambodia Post Bank, said the policy sends a clear signal that the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) stands ready to intervene when institutions face short term cash flow pressures. “This helps strengthen public confidence, as people know the NBC can step in immediately,” he said.

Toch Chao Chek, Board Member of the Association of Banks in Cambodia and CEO of Cambodia Post Bank

Hattha Bank President and CEO Min Sopha added that the move was “an appetizer to what the public’s concern over the recent news of a few banks that got liquidate problem.” He continued: “I do support the intervention from our regulator (NBC) as it is the timely response to build confidence among the public. Frankly speaking, our financial system remains strong and resilient.”

Hattha Bank President and CEO Mr.Min Sopha

Other industry leaders echoed the sentiment. KB Prasac Bank CEO Ry Vanna voiced support for the National Bank of Cambodia’s emergency liquidity assistance measures, describing them as appropriate steps to reinforce the resilience of the country’s banking system. “This Prakas will help strengthen the importance of prudent cash‑flow management, robust risk controls and operational discipline,” he said.

KB Prasac Bank President and CEO Mr. Ry Vanna

AMK CEO Khea Borann agreed, noting the directive would further enhance trust in Cambodia’s fast‑growing banking system. “It sends a clear signal that the central bank is ready to safeguard stability and protect depositors, which is vital for sustaining confidence in the sector,” Boran said.

AMK Bank CEO Mr. Khea Borann

The NBC has issued Prakas No. B37.026.204 Prokor, dated March 20, 2026, updating its 2015 directive on emergency liquidity assistance. The framework allows deposit taking institutions facing temporary liquidity problems to request support as a last resort option, with strict eligibility criteria including adequate capital, sustained profitability and eligible collateral.

The central bank stressed that institutions must first exhaust other funding options—such as interbank borrowing or shareholder support—before applying. Each request will be assessed case by case to ensure the mechanism is used prudently, preventing systemic risks and preserving financial stability.