Cambodia Expanded Green Bond Programme to Support Sustainable Tourism and Development

Koh Rong, Cambodia

A Bold Step Towards Sustainable Growth

Cambodia had expanded its green bond support programme, marking a significant move towards financing environmentally friendly and sustainable projects. Originally launched in 2023, the initiative provided both technical and financial support to companies aiming to issue green and sustainable bonds, aligning the nation’s financial sector with its long-term climate goals.

By 2025, this programme had become an important driver of Cambodia’s sustainable development agenda, strengthening the country’s global reputation as a forward-looking destination for investment, eco-tourism, and climate resilience.

 

Unlocking Financing for Green Projects

The sustainable bond accelerator supported a wide range of initiatives, from renewable energy and clean transportation to smart agriculture, energy efficiency, and green building projects. According to Sou Socheat, director general of the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC), the programme aimed to mobilise investments that directly addressed Cambodia’s climate mitigation and adaptation priorities.

The expansion of the programme empowered more Cambodian issuers to access capital markets while also lowering the cost of issuance. By offering advisory support and ensuring compliance with international sustainable bond standards, the initiative created a more transparent and accessible pathway for green finance in Cambodia.

 

Collaborative Partnerships Driving Success

Cambodia’s green bond initiative was not a standalone effort. It was jointly supported by the SERC, the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI). The Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC) also joined for the third phase, helping to broaden the programme’s impact.

This partnership-driven model proved essential in fostering growth. By mid-2025, the programme had already supported more than US$60 million in green bond issuances, with another US$100 million in progress. The collaborative approach demonstrated how strong cooperation among regulators, partners, and market participants could accelerate sustainable development in Southeast Asia.

 

Strengthening Cambodia’s Sustainable Tourism Future

The expansion of Cambodia’s green bond programme also carried implications for the country’s tourism industry. Investments in renewable energy, eco-friendly infrastructure, and smart urban planning directly benefitted key travel destinations such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and the coastal provinces.

By improving green transport systems, developing energy-efficient hotels, and supporting eco-friendly resorts, Cambodia created opportunities for sustainable tourism experiences. Visitors were increasingly able to explore the country’s cultural heritage and natural beauty with a lower environmental footprint, reinforcing Cambodia’s reputation as a responsible travel destination.

 

Commitment to Long-Term Sustainability

At an event in July, Sou Socheat reaffirmed Cambodia’s dedication to building “a robust, transparent, and inclusive sustainability bond ecosystem that supports long-term economic growth and environmental resilience.” This vision reflected the country’s broader strategy to balance economic expansion with climate responsibility.

The programme’s third phase, open for applications until August 31, 2025, further illustrated Cambodia’s determination to keep expanding its sustainable finance ecosystem. With growing global interest in green investment, Cambodia successfully positioned itself as both an attractive destination for investors and a leader in climate-conscious tourism development.

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