PHNOM PENH — H.E. Dr. Chea Serey, Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), hosted a high-level meeting Thursday with the newly appointed Country Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Ms. Yasmin Siddiqi. The discussions centered on a strategic roadmap for Cambodia’s economic resilience, specifically focusing on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the financial sector.
The meeting marks a pivotal moment for the Kingdom’s digital transformation. Under the executive leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet, Cambodia is positioning itself as a regional leader in “FinTech” (Financial Technology), utilizing the innovative Bakong system and AI-driven liquidity forecasting to ensure a stable and inclusive economy.
Driving Financial Inclusion through Education Ms. Siddiqi commended the National Bank for its groundbreaking work in financial literacy. In a move that aligns with Western educational standards, Cambodia has successfully integrated financial education into its general school curriculum—a step the ADB Director described as “significant progress” for long-term national growth.
The partnership will continue to focus on several key pillars:
- AI Integration: Leveraging artificial intelligence to modernize banking operations and consumer protection.
- National Strategy 2026–2030: Updating the National Strategy on Financial Inclusion to reach underserved rural communities.
- Economic Sustainability: Strengthening the Financial Services Consumer Protection Centre to ensure a safe environment for all investors.
A Lasting Partnership for Stability Governor Chea Serey reaffirmed the NBC’s long-standing cooperation with the ADB, expressing gratitude for the technical support that has helped stabilize Cambodia’s economy despite global uncertainties. As Cambodia moves toward the 2030 goal of becoming an upper-middle-income nation, this partnership remains a cornerstone of the Pentagonal Strategy.
FAQ: National Bank of Cambodia AI finance 2026
H.E. Dr. Chea Serey serves as the Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia. She is widely recognized for launching the Bakong blockchain payment system and driving the nation’s digital currency innovation.
The National Bank of Cambodia is exploring AI for liquidity forecasting, enhancing digital payment security, and improving consumer protection through automated systems.
It is a comprehensive roadmap developed by the NBC with ADB support to expand banking access to rural populations, promote the use of the Khmer Riel, and increase financial literacy across the Kingdom.
Yes. The ADB is a major development partner, providing technical and financial assistance for infrastructure, education, and financial sector reforms to support Cambodia’s long-term economic resilience.