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Cambodia Raises $58 Million through Government Bonds in 2023

  • Posted Mar 18, 2024 16:48 by Anthony Ellis
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Phnom Penh, March 18, 2024 – In a move to bolster public investment, the Royal Government of Cambodia succeeded in raising $58.26 million in 2023 by issuing government bonds, achieving 26 percent of the legally allowed $200 million target.

These government bonds were launched into the primary market via the National Bank of Cambodia Auction Platform, marking a continued effort by the government to harness domestic financial resources for infrastructure and development projects.

According to the Cambodia Public Debt Statistical Bulletin issued by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, "In 2023, the government issued securities totaling KHR 238 billion, equivalent to $58.26 million, representing 29 percent of the permitted ceiling of KHR 813 billion."

The initiative is part of the government's broader strategy to finance public investments directly while fostering the growth of the domestic securities market.

Entering its third year of issuing government securities, the Royal Government of Cambodia plans to elevate its bond issuance in 2024 to KHR 440 billion, approximately $108 million, aimed at enhancing revenue generation and ensuring sustainable debt management practices.

The issuance of government bonds, which commenced in September 2022, was introduced as an innovative financial instrument. This approach not only augments domestic revenue but also diminishes the reliance on foreign borrowing for critical infrastructure projects.

Highlighting the importance of government bonds in the economic framework, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance underscored their role in financing developmental activities. "Government bonds are set to make a significant impact on the Cambodia Securities Exchange, offering crucial benchmark data for corporate securities trading and financial analysis," he noted, emphasizing the growing importance of the securities sector in Cambodia.

For investors, government bonds offer attractive fiscal incentives, including a 50 percent deduction on withholding tax for interest income and a three-year tax exemption on capital gains from bond trading. These incentives are designed to encourage investment in government securities, aligning financial markets with the nation's development goals.

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