ACLEDA Bank Writes Off $30 Million in Soldier Loans, Private Sector Rallies Behind Cambodia’s Frontline Heroes

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 17, 2025) — ACLEDA Bank Plc has written off $30 million in loans owed by Cambodian soldiers killed or permanently disabled in combat, underscoring the private sector’s role in supporting frontline heroes amid the escalating border conflict with Thailand.

The move follows guidance from the National Bank of Cambodia on Dec. 10, urging financial institutions to ease debt burdens for war affected households, including families of fallen and wounded service members.

Speaking at a press briefing Dec. 16, ACLEDA President and Group Managing Director In Channy said the debt forgiveness reflects the bank’s commitment to implementing government measures while providing tangible relief to families bearing the heaviest cost of the fighting.

ACLEDA operates 25 branches in provinces along the Thai border, where clashes have disrupted livelihoods and displaced communities. The bank serves more than 52,000 borrowers in these areas, with a combined loan portfolio of about $700 million.

In addition to the write offs, ACLEDA has restructured or deferred $70 million in loans for displaced civilians and active duty soldiers, bringing total relief measures to $100 million.

The initiative highlights growing corporate solidarity with Cambodia’s defense efforts, as financial institutions step in to support soldiers and civilians caught in the crisis.