Khmer Times News: Cambodia’s international reserves rose to over $27 billion in 2025, providing cover for around eight months of imports of goods and services in the following period, a level that remains broadly regarded as adequate, according to a report released by the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) on Friday.
The central bank said the sustained high level of reserves reflects Cambodia’s strong external debt servicing capacity, continued exchange rate stability and the resilience of the national payment system, while also providing sufficient buffers to meet liquidity needs in the event of external shocks.
According to the report, international reserves increased by 22.3 percent from $22.5 billion in 2024 to $27.5 billion in 2025, equivalent to about eight months of imports of goods and services — a level considered high for a developing economy. The increase was mainly driven by higher global gold prices, income from foreign investments, exchange rate fluctuations, and increased deposits from banking and financial institutions, the Royal Government and mandatory reserves.
The NBC noted that international reserve management continues to be conducted in a prudent and professional manner, in line with international best practices. The reserve management framework is designed to ensure safety, liquidity and efficiency, with strategic direction and acceptable risk levels determined by the Board of Directors through the annual approval of investment policies or as required.
Operational oversight is carried out through monthly monitoring by the Reserve Investment Committee, chaired by the NBC Governor. The committee reviews investment performance, assesses market conditions and recommends necessary adjustments to ensure reserve management remains focused on capital preservation, liquidity and appropriate returns.
In 2025, the central bank further strengthened its reserve management framework by updating several key instruments, including the Investment Guidelines, Guidelines on the Selection and Management of External Managers and Custodians, and internal regulations on professional ethics for reserve management staff. Improvements were also made to the reserve management system, alongside the diversification and addition of custodians, with the aim of enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
At the same time, the NBC continued to expand investments in green bonds and environmental, social and governance (ESG)-related bonds issued by major international financial institutions in China, South Korea, Japan and Europe. The move aligns Cambodia’s reserve management strategy with global investment trends while supporting sustainable, responsible and low-risk investment practices.
Source: https://www.khmertimeskh.com
