Joint QR payment system between Cambodia and Philippines on the horizon

Economy and Industry

Joint QR payment system between Cambodia and Philippines on the horizon Cambodia and the Philippines are promoting bilateral financial cooperation and accelerating the adoption of a QR cross-border payment system, aiming to facilitate trade and tourism between the two countries. The initiative was discussed during an annual bilateral meeting between Chea Serey, governor of the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), and Eli M. Remolona, Jr., governor of the Central Bank of the Philippines (BSP). The meeting reaffirmed the joint commitment of both central banks to strengthen and enhance bilateral cooperation, promote financial innovation, improve the efficiency and interoperability of payment systems, and exchange experiences and further cooperation in various central banking activities. The project plays a vital role in promoting trade and financial integration between partner countries and marks an important step toward achieving the ASEAN economic community's vision of interconnected, fast, efficient, and secure retail payment systems. (Source: Phnom Penh Post).

Rising number of Japanese investors eye Cambodian opportunities Japanese investors have been exploring investment opportunities in Cambodia, particularly in the electric wire and cable industry, architecture and construction, and public infrastructure development. In 2024, around 90 Japanese companies registered businesses in Cambodia, a 20.55% increase from 2023. The Cambodian government has introduced supportive policies to improve the investment climate, including tax and non-tax incentives, investment guarantees, macroeconomic stability, peace and security, and rapid development of physical infrastructure. The increasing trend in bilateral trade and investment from Japanese investors is due to strong diplomatic relations between the two countries. Japan is Cambodia's 5th largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching a total of $1.44 billion in the first seven months of 2025 and $2.16 billion in 2024. (Source: Phnom Penh Post).

Plummeting paddy prices drive farmers to hardship despite PM's assistance Paddy prices in Cambodia have dropped from 800 riels per kilogramme to 600 riels per kilogramme, causing farmers to demand at least 1,000 riels to sustain their livelihoods. The price drops are driven by an imbalance between supply and demand, as farmers tend to grow varieties that fetched high prices the previous year, often ignoring market signals or buyer preferences. The drop in prices has sparked concerns over income security in rural communities, particularly as Cambodia works to strengthen food security and expand agricultural exports. The Thai border restrictions have congested agricultural output, leaving farmers struggling with oversupply and sharply declining prices. Prime Minister Hun Manet has pledged strong government support for the agricultural sector, emphasizing infrastructure, cost reduction, and market access as key priorities to stabilize rural incomes. (Source: Khmer Times)

Corporate News

CGCC support surpasses $365 million in loan guarantees The Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC) has secured over $365 million in loans as of July 31, 2025, demonstrating its commitment to supporting businesses' access to finance. The total number of guaranteed accounts reached 6,579, with guaranteed loans amounting to $365.36 million. Wholesale guarantees surged in July, with $50 million approved, while individual and portfolio guarantees have maintained consistent growth throughout 2025. Loan distribution accounted for 246.4 billion riels ($61.58 million), with 182.2 billion riels guaranteed. The CGCC reported a non-performing guarantee rate of 8.91 percent. The scheme operates in partnership with participating financial institutions, including the state-owned Agriculture and Rural Development Bank and SME Bank, which provide working capital and investment credit to support business expansion. (Source: Khmer Times)

Stock Market

GTI gains, majority of main board falls On 21 August 2025, the CSX Index fell by 0.19%, closing at 404.6 points. On the Main Board, GTI (+0.86%) posted gains, while PEPC (-0.76%), PPAP (-0.74%), ABC (-0.58%), and PWSA (-0.32%) recorded losses. PPSP, PAS, MJQE, and CGSM remained unchanged. On the Growth Board, DBDE dropped 0.50%, while JSL rose 0.36%. Total trading volume reached 43,600 shares, with a turnover of KHR 224 million. (Source: YSC Research)

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