NBC Launches Sustainable Finance Taxonomy to Guide Green Investment and Combat Greenwashing
AKP Phnom Penh, April 28, 2026
The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) officially launched the ‘Sustainable Finance Taxonomy’ on April 27, 2026, with the aim of strengthening transparency and credibility in green financing, while mitigating the risk of "greenwashing" within the Cambodian financial sector.
The launch ceremony was presided over by H.E. Dr. Chea Serey, Governor of the NBC, and Elvira Morella, Country Advisory and Economics Manager at the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
The taxonomy is designed to provide a clear and consistent classification system for sustainable economic activities, helping financial institutions, investors and market participants identify projects that contribute to environmental sustainability. It also seeks to curb the risk of “greenwashing” within Cambodia’s financial sector.
In its initial phase, the Sustainable Finance Taxonomy will focus on three key sectors – energy, transport, and construction – to provide banks and financial institutions a structured approach to classifying "green" projects and facilitate investment aligned with sustainability goals.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, H.E. Dr. Chea Serey emphasised that while the first phase targets the banking sector, the taxonomy is not limited to financial institutions.
She encouraged wider adoption across industries, noting that the central bank will continue to expand its scope in collaboration with relevant ministries and stakeholders.
The NBC Governor added that future phases will incorporate additional sectors and deepen efforts on climate change adaptation, ensuring broader applicability across the economy.
H.E. Dr. Chea Serey also highlighted the growing impact of climate change on business operations, stressing the need for firms to adopt energy efficiency measures, green supply chains and sustainable practices.
“The taxonomy would serve as a key framework for mobilising capital towards Cambodia’s green transition, while positioning the country within regional and global sustainable investment ecosystems,” she said.
The launch marks a significant step in Cambodia’s efforts to align its financial system with international sustainability standards, while tailoring solutions to its status as a developing economy.
