CMA, ARDB forge partnership to advance green finance in Cambodia

CMA, ARDB forge partnership to advance green finance in Cambodia

The Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA) and the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a framework for promoting green finance and climate-responsive services across the banking, agriculture, and MSME sectors.

This partnership is designed to address Cambodia’s climate vulnerability, aligning with the Royal Government’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient development.

The MoU was signed yesterday by CMA Board Chairman Sok Voeun and ARDB Deputy Director-General Chan Seyha. The ceremony was attended by representatives from the National Bank of Cambodia, government ministries, development partners, and financial sector stakeholders.

Under the agreement, the CMA and ARDB will collaborate to accelerate the transition toward a green economy. The CMA will act as a facilitator, mobilising member financial institutions, coordinating data collection, and organising capacity-building activities to improve understanding of environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards. The association will also support the dissemination of green financing guidelines and ARDB mechanisms to stakeholders, including the Techo Farmers Network Association.

“This MoU marks a significant turning point for Cambodia’s financial sector,” Voeun said. “By aligning our efforts with national climate priorities, we are strengthening the capacity of our members in ESG and climate risk management, while pioneering green financing for enterprises and sustainable projects.”

ARDB Deputy Director-General Chan Seyha noted that the nation’s agriculture and agro-industry require robust financing to build climate resilience.

“Through this collaboration, we aim to mobilise green credit, bridge financing gaps, and support farmers and rural enterprises in transitioning to environmentally sustainable practices,” Seyha said.

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