AKP Phnom Penh, April 28, 2026 --

The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) has officially launched a Sustainable Finance Taxonomy for the country’s banking sector, with a move aimed at strengthening transparency and credibility in green financing.

The launching ceremony was held here on April 27 under the presidency of H.E. Dr. Chea Serey, NBC Governor and Ms. Elvira Morella, Director of Advisory and Economic Research for the East Asia and Pacific region of the International Finance Corporation.

The taxonomy is designed to provide a clear and consistent classification system for sustainable economic activities, helping financial institutions, investors and market participants identify projects that contribute to environmental sustainability. It also seeks to curb the risk of “greenwashing” within Cambodia’s financial sector.

In its initial phase, the taxonomy will focus on three key sectors such as energy, transport and construction, offering banks a structured approach to classify green projects and facilitate investment aligned with sustainability goals.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, H.E. Dr. Chea Serey emphasised that while the first phase targets the banking sector, the taxonomy is not limited to financial institutions. 

She encouraged wider adoption across industries, noting that the central bank will continue to expand its scope in collaboration with relevant ministries and stakeholders.

The NBC Governor added that future phases will incorporate additional sectors and deepen efforts on climate change adaptation, ensuring broader applicability across the economy.

H.E. Dr. Chea Serey also highlighted the growing impact of climate change on business operations, stressing the need for firms to adopt energy efficiency measures, green supply chains and sustainable practices.

“The taxonomy would serve as a key framework for mobilising capital towards Cambodia’s green transition, while positioning the country within regional and global sustainable investment ecosystems,” she said.

The launch marks a significant step in Cambodia’s efforts to align its financial system with international sustainability standards, while tailoring solutions to its status as a developing economy.

By Sum Kosal