AKP Phnom Penh, October 23, 2026 —

The Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB), in cooperation with the Federation of Associations for SMEs of Cambodia (FASMEC), will organise the 1st National Forum on Financing for MSMEs 2026 to boost financial access and growth in Cambodia.

Under the theme “MSMEs’ Access to Finance” from Oct. 27 to 28 at the Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Centre, the forum aims to enhance MSMEs’ knowledge and readiness regarding sources of finance, lending requirements, loan application procedures, credit history management and the preparation of accurate and complete financial information and documents, according to a joint statement issued on Oct. 23.

It is also designed to understand the challenges and gaps between MSMEs’ financing needs and the supply of finance, in order to identify appropriate solutions and improve the efficiency of financing delivery.

Furthermore, the forum will raise awareness of financing options and innovations, including financing from the banking and non-bank financial sectors, credit guarantee mechanisms, capital mobilisation and the use of data and digital platforms, to expand access to finance.

Additionally, it will strengthen cooperation and networking among MSMEs, financing institutions, investors and relevant ministries and institutions, to promote practical financing solutions and the development of the MSME finance ecosystem in Cambodia.

The forum is a joint initiative of ARDB and FASMEC, planned as an annual event under a different theme each year, to serve as a national platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and stronger cooperation among government institutions, financial institutions, investors, technology providers and the private sector, linking MSMEs’ financing needs with sources of capital and suitable financing solutions.

Over the two-day event, in addition to presentations and panel discussions on SME support policies, financing through the banking and non-bank financial sectors, and the role of data and digital platforms, the forum will also feature a special session on “Building the MSME Finance Ecosystem in Cambodia: Policy, Partnership, Opportunities and Future Direction”.

The forum clearly reflects ARDB’s strong commitment to supporting MSMEs, the backbone of the national economy and a vital source of jobs and income for the Cambodian people.

As a public financial institution, ARDB remains committed to deepening public–private partnership to build an inclusive and sustainable MSME finance ecosystem, contributing to the realisation of Cambodia Vision 2050.

By Sum Kosal