Cambodia’s Banking Sector Holds Firm Amid Global Pressures, Misinformation Concerns

PHNOM PENH, April 21, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s banking sector continues to demonstrate resilience despite global economic headwinds and recent waves of misinformation that have tested public confidence, officials said Tuesday.

Backed by more than a decade of oversight from the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), the financial system remains fundamentally strong, with steady growth in assets, deposits and lending.

Central bank figures showed total assets reached about $101 billion in 2025, up 10 percent year-on-year. Deposits climbed 14 percent to $65.7 billion, while loans expanded 4 percent to $63 billion.

Sok Chan, spokesperson for the Association of Banks in Cambodia, said the sector’s strength reflects improvements in compliance, digital infrastructure and human capital. “The sector remains robust, stable and trusted by the public, thanks to consistent prudential measures implemented by the NBC,” he said.

The resilience comes despite external shocks from the Russia-Ukraine war, global trade tensions and regional geopolitical uncertainty, which have driven inflation and volatility across Southeast Asia.

Authorities also moved quickly to counter false claims circulating on social media alleging foreign freezes of Cambodian bank funds. Industry associations dismissed the rumors as baseless and harmful, warning they risk undermining trust in the financial system. Both banking and microfinance groups praised the central bank’s swift communication, saying it reassured depositors and helped maintain stability.

The sector has also faced scrutiny following the liquidation of Prince Bank Plc. and Panda Commercial Bank earlier this year, as well as temporary withdrawal limits imposed by APD Bank. Officials stressed these cases were isolated and did not reflect broader systemic risks. NBC governor Chea Serey reaffirmed that most institutions continue normal operations, with customers maintaining confidence in financial services.

While non-performing loans rose to around 8 percent in 2025, analysts said the level remains manageable given the broader economic context and ongoing regulatory oversight.

As Cambodia navigates a complex global environment, the continued growth in deposits and sustained public trust highlight the sector’s strong fundamentals and its critical role in supporting economic stability and long-term development.