The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC), in cooperation with the Australian embassy, staged the “Public Awareness on the Implementation of the Prakas on the Offering of Infrastructure Debt Securities and the Guideline on the Eligible Assets Used for the Offering of Infrastructure Debt Securities” on July 22.
The Phnom Penh evet featured keynote addresses from SERC director-general Sou Socheat and Australian ambassador Derek Yip.
The workshop marked the official launch of a new regulation that enables public and private companies to raise long-term capital for infrastructure through bonds issuance, marking an important step toward a more resilient, market-driven economy.
Socheat noted that the infrastructure sector is undeniably the backbone and lifeblood of all socio-economic activities, serving as a critical catalyst for growth and strengthening economic resilience, and is therefore an essential pillar that cannot be overlooked.
“In this context, the adoption of this Prakas aligns seamlessly with our nation’s economic development priorities,” he said.
“This milestone not only reflects our commitment to diversifying financial products beyond conventional offerings but also emphasises sustainable financing options.
Furthermore, it broadens companies’ access to diverse financing mechanisms, enabling them to raise capital more effectively. As a result, this initiative will significantly contribute to national development, particularly in priority sectors and environmentally sustainable projects,” he added.
Ambassador Yip explained that Australia is helping Cambodia to develop its capital market. The Prakas is a critical step in expanding financing channels to fund the infrastructure Cambodia needs to drive inclusive growth, improve livelihoods and strengthen economic resilience.
“It is another way we are contributing to sustainable development in Cambodia, in line with the priorities outlined in the Australia–Cambodia Development Partnership Plan 2025-2029,” he noted.
With this regulation in place, Cambodia joins regional peers, such as Vietnam and Indonesia, in leveraging infrastructure bonds to mobilise billions in long-term financing. The Prakas enables similar financing mechanisms, boosting investor confidence and supporting sustainable, long-term development.
Since the issuance of Cambodia’s first government bond in 2022, the local capital market has raised over $417.46 million through corporate bonds, demonstrating growing investor interest. The Infrastructure Bond Prakas builds on this momentum by creating investment channels directly aligned with Cambodia’s development priorities.
