CGCC

Menu
Menu

Tag: Credit Guarantee

SERC, CGCC Sign Pact to Promote Issuance of Guaranteed Bonds

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC) and Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia Friday partnered to promote the issuance of guarantee bonds.

The memorandum of understanding was signed by SERC Director-General Sou Socheat and Wong Keet Loong, Chief Executive Officer of Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC).

The MoU aims to promote the development of the securities sector and the issuance of guaranteed bonds by supporting companies and financial institutions to obtain additional capital through the issuance of bonds including green bonds, social bonds, sustainability-linked bonds and sustainability bonds which are supported and guaranteed of repayment in case default by local guarantor to enhance local capital mobilization more effectively.

Both institutions also co-organized a workshop on “Benefits and Opportunities of Issuing Guaranteed Bonds in Cambodia” to raise awareness and disseminate the requirements to obtain guarantees for bonds and for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and related institutions as well as highlight the benefits and opportunities of issuing guaranteed bonds.

Socheat said, “The MoU will attract more companies, including SMEs, to seek financing through the securities market and provide additional benefit for listed companies having demands for additional sources of financing in the form of bond issuance or other forms of debt, with the opportunities to obtain guarantees with special rates.”

Wong said that as the first and only bond guarantee institution in Cambodia, CGCC will play a key role in developing the growth of bond issuance listed on the Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX). “This MoU with SERC is strategic to develop and work towards enhancing the securities framework to promote higher bond issuance to raise funding and attract more domestic and foreign investors,” he said.

This MoU will enable both parties to achieve the shared goal in terms of mutually supporting SERC for the development of the bond market, and CGCC to be the leading bond guarantee institution in Cambodia for improving financial inclusion and developing SMEs in Cambodia, said Ros Seilava, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

“This cooperation will bring a positive impact on the bond market in Cambodia by encouraging the issuance and investment of more bonds, including green bonds, social bonds, and sustainable bonds,” Seilava said.

 

Credit to: Khmer Times, Published on 02 September 2024

 

SERC and CGCC Sign MoU to Promote Guaranteed Bonds in Cambodia

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

Cambodia

The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC) and the Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC) have signed an MoU. The agreement, aimed at promoting the development and issuance of guaranteed bonds in the country, was signed at the Non-Bank Financial Services Authority (FSA) Building under the auspices of H.E. Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Economy and Finance, and Chairman of the FSA.

The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials, including H.E. Sou Socheat, Delegate of the Royal Government in Charge as Director General of SERC, and Mr. Wong Keet Loong, Chief Executive Officer of CGCC. The event was presided over by H.E. Ros Seilava, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Chairman of CGCC, and Vice Chairman of the Board of the FSA.

Support The Growth Of The Securities Sector In Cambodia

This MoU marks a collaborative effort to support the growth of the securities sector in Cambodia, particularly through the issuance of guaranteed bonds. These bonds, including green bonds, social bonds, sustainability-linked bonds, and sustainability bonds, will be guaranteed by local institutions to enhance confidence among investors. The guarantee mechanism is designed to mitigate the risks associated with bond issuance, thereby encouraging more companies and financial institutions to raise capital through this avenue.

Read More: SERC and ACLEDA Bank Strengthen Commitment to Developing Capital Market Talent

H.E. Sou Socheat emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating, “Through today’s MoU, it will attract more companies, including SMEs, to seek financing through the securities market, and will also provide additional benefits for listed companies having demands for additional sources of financing in the form of bond issuance or other forms of debt, with the opportunities to obtain guarantee with special rate.”

Mr. Wong Keet Loong highlighted CGCC’s role in this initiative, noting, “As the first and only bond guarantee institution in Cambodia, CGCC will play a key role in developing the growth of bond issuance listed on the Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX). The credit rating of CGCC at khAAA will enhance the credit rating of the issuer thus giving added confidence to bond investors. This MoU with SERC is strategic to develop and work towards enhancing the securities framework to promote higher bond issuance to raise funding and attract more domestic and foreign investors.”

CGCC To Be The Leading Bond Guarantee Institution In Cambodia

H.E. Ros Seilava added that this collaboration would have a far-reaching impact on the development of the bond market in Cambodia, stating, “This MoU will enable both parties to achieve the shared goal in terms of mutually supporting SERC for the development of the bond market, and CGCC to be the leading bond guarantee institution in Cambodia for improving financial inclusion and developing SMEs in Cambodia. At the same time, this cooperation will bring a positive impact on the bond market in Cambodia by encouraging the issuance and investment of more bonds, including green bonds, social bonds, and sustainable bonds.”

Read More: Leader Talks with H.E. Sou Socheat on SERC’s Vision for Cambodia’s Securities Markets from 2024-2028

The MoU signing was followed by a workshop titled “Benefits and Opportunities of Issuing Guaranteed Bonds in Cambodia.” The workshop aimed to raise awareness among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and related institutions about the opportunities and benefits of issuing guaranteed bonds. It also provided insights into the requirements for obtaining guarantees for bonds, facilitating better understanding and participation in the bond market.

The event attracted a broad range of participants, including senior representatives from the General Secretariat of the FSA, regulators under the FSA, the Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX), the Cambodia Association of Securities Firms, the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Cambodia, the Association of Banks in Cambodia, the Rating Agency of Cambodia Plc., and various listed companies. A total of 100 participants attended the event, which featured expert speakers from SERC, CGCC, Telcotech LTD., Royal Group Securities Plc., and Prudential (Cambodia) Life Assurance Plc.

 

Credit to: Cambodia Investment Review, Published on 02 September 2024

 

The Signing of Memorandum of Understanding between The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia and Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia on Collaboration in Promoting the Development and the Issuance of Guaranteed Bonds and Workshop on “Benefits and Opportunities of Issuing Guaranteed Bonds in Cambodia”

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

Download Press Release

 

Job Vacancies with CGCC – Manager of Credit Management, Deputy Manager of Legal and Company Secretariat

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia Plc. (CGCC) is a state-owned enterprise established under the Ministry of Economy and Finance. CGCC was recently set up to improve financial inclusion and develop the growth of SMEs in Cambodia. It plays an important role in the economic development of the country.

We are expanding our team! Join us, If you want to be part of the team, CGCC is urgently seeking qualified candidate for the following positions:

Manager of Credit Management

Job Overview

  • Will be responsible for overseeing on credit evaluation, credit administration, claim management, Non-Performing Loan and recovery management, management of reporting, and operational credit documentation, supporting the development and enhancement of GMS (Guarantee Management System), managing team, and building a good relationship with PFI.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Reporting to the Director of Centralized Operations (DCOP) in managing all aspects of centralized operations, including branch operations (if any) credit evaluation and credit administration, loan monitoring and recovery management, claim management, customer satisfaction, feedback management etc.
  • Assist the DCOP to be accountable for all credit evaluation and credit administration related matters e.g., ensure loan is approved within the provided Turn Around Time (TAT), manage claim request and proceed with claim settlement upon all term and conditions are fulfilled and accurate etc. and authorize all core systems data input (data amendments etc.)
  • Support and assist the DCOP on implementing operational matters of all CGCC’s credit guarantee schemes and bond guarantee to ensure the sustainability of CGCC’s product and service.
  • Assist the DCOP in supporting the development & enhancement of GMS (Guarantee Management System) and derive greater productivity and cost efficiency across all operational processes, including the review for process automation.
  • Assist the DCOP in management of reporting and operational credit documentation and periodic review on Portfolio Guarantee scheme (PGS).
  • Assist the DCOP to develop all credit management and loan monitoring related policies, standard operating procedures and framework and ensure the quality of credit documentation, specifically facility offer letters in line with the approved credit application, credit policies and procedures, prudential guidelines, and other relevant legislation.
  • Support and assist the DCOP to build and supervise a team of appropriate skills to assist him/her in carrying out his/her duties and ensure that they are trained accordingly.
  • Responsible for dealing with issues related to centralized operational matters with proper timeframe and building good relationships with PFIs.
  • Responsible for providing training to existing or new PFIs related to Guarantee Application Form (GAF) filing process and/or monthly report submission to ensure speed up the turnaround time.
  • Carry out any other duties and ad-hoc assignments assigned to him/her by the DCOP or Managements of the CGCC as and when required for CGCC.

Qualification Requirements

  • At least 5 years’ experience in the financial industry or banking sector related credit evaluation, credit admin, non-performing Loan, and recovery management.
  • Experience of managing team
  • Bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, or a related field
  • Proficiency in relevant software and systems
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet targets
  • Age is not over 40s

 

Deputy Manager of Legal and Company Secretariat

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist direct reporting line supervisor in drafting and reviewing legal documents including contracts/agreements and memorandum of understanding between CGCC, participating financial institutions (PFIs), stakeholder and suppliers, court documentation, guidelines, policy, law and regulations, to support the operation of Legal and Company Secretary Department (LCS).
  • Assist in providing legal advice and solving legal matters to protect the CGCC’s interest.
  • Conducting research of legal information, laws, governmental regulations, rules, circulars, orders, instructions, and others and keeping up to date with changing legislation that may impact CGCC’s business and organizing legal libraries.
  • Drafting, formatting, and proofreading correspondence and basic legal documents, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
  • Translating legal documentation
  • Liaising with governmental regulators or authorities, legal counsel or lawyer, court on related matters and attending court process.
  • Organizing board and sub-board meetings, preparing agendas and papers for the meetings.
  • Convening and servicing meetings, taking minutes, drafting resolutions and meeting minutes, and arranging and maintaining these documents in an appropriate manner.
  • Coordinating with the Board and sub-board for related matters.
  • Drafting letters or documents on related matters and submit to the Ministry of Economy and Finance, other ministries or governmental authorities as necessary.
  • Maintaining corporate statutory documentations including constituent document, corporate document approved by relevant authorities, and filing any documents with relevant authorities
  • Attending any seminars, conferences, or events organized by CGCC, PFIs, stakeholders, ministries or governmental authorities.
  • Collaborate with direct reporting line supervisor in developing and delivering legal education and training programs to internal staffs to build capacity and to foster a culture of professional development.
  • Provide administrative support to LCS, including arranging files, tracking records, contract/agreements, other legal documents, travel arrangement, etc.
  • Complete other work as assigned by direct reporting line supervisor

Qualification Requirements

  • Bachelor of law or Master of law graduate having at least 3 year-experience in law firm, in-house legal in banks, financial institutions, or in any companies.
  • Having knowledge on relevant Cambodian laws and regulations, especially banking and finance laws and regulations.
  • Meticulous attention to detail and the ability to work well under pressure.
  • Interpersonal skills and the ability to work with people at all levels
  • Good organization and time management.
  • An ability to take initiative.
  • A flexible and practical approach to work.
  • Fluent in English and Khmer, both writing and speaking
  • Strong administrative skills and an aptitude for using IT software.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.

Deadline: 6th September 2024

 

CGCC, GuarantCo Sign MoU to Promote Bond Market in Cambodia

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

State-owned enterprise Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC) signed an MoU on Thursday with GuarantCo for a structured facility that enhances guarantee capacity in the bond market space.

Cambodia is unusual in that its bond market is larger than its equities market when in most countries it would be the other way around. The Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX) has 23 listed companies – 11 offering their equity shares and 12 offering their bonds. But it’s the bond market that is set to see a boost as five more companies are expected to list, which would take the total number of listed bond players to 17 versus 11 equity players.

CGCC said it has a total guarantee capacity of $200 million. “CGCC had an unusual beginning in that it started right in the middle of Covid. We started guaranteeing loans to SMEs. Today we’ve guaranteed loans amounting to $164 million to 1,928 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as we mark three years of operation. But our vision has expanded now and we’ve also set up a Sustainable Green Financing Facility and this bond guarantee scheme for which we hope we’ll have a valuable partner in GuarantCo,” said KL Wong, CEO, CGCC. He added that it would be reassuring to prospective bond investors that their partner GuarantCo is a Fitch “stable” and “AA” rated entity.

With the partnership, speakers at the events said that CGCC would get technical assistance from GuarantCo on navigating the bond issuances and the bond market. GuarantCo could potentially combine its resources with CGCC to enhance its combined bond guarantee capacity. Also present at the event were Hong Sok Hour, the Royal Government Delegate in Charge as CEO of Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX) and Seang Thirith, Deputy Director General of Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC).

“At GuarantCo we are keen on enabling sustainable infrastructure in Africa and Asia. So far we’ve encouraged infrastructure development in low-income countries through the provision of credit guarantees that enable infrastructure projects,” said Nishant Kumar, Managing Director (Asia) of GuarantCo, part of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG).

“And in many countries we work like Nigeria and Pakistan we’ve had to set up a credit guarantee facility from scratch. But, Cambodia already has a credit guarantor in CGCC. An extremely innovative approach by the government that I’m not sure I’ve seen replicated anywhere else in this region,” said Denesh Srishanker, Credit Enhancement Facility Director, PIDG. “We’re more keen on local solutions to help local markets. And we do want to close the infrastructure funding gap in countries like Cambodia,” he added.

Innovation in funding is something the UK Government is keen on, said Dominic Williams, British Ambassador to Cambodia, while citing Britain’s role as Cambodia’s long-term development partner. “Cambodia has traditionally had a model of relying on the government budget and its external/international development partners. But, guaranteeing bonds for investor confidence could ensure the country gets other sources of funding too for its critical infrastructure projects,” said Williams.

GuarantCo Managing Director Kumar also talked about other projects they have done in the country, including providing a $70 million bond guarantee to CamGSM (popularly known as Cellcard) to finance its telecom infrastructure; its $24 million bond guarantee to Royal Railway Cambodia to invest in the national railway system; and $7 million in debt financing to MFI First Finance for building affordable housing for low-and-middle income groups in Cambodia.

“We are keen on credit enhancement, providing technical assistance to CGCC and creating viable opportunities for private investors in frontier markets,” said Philippe Valahu, CEO, PIDG.

On the timeframe of execution, CGCC CEO Wong said that they (CGCC and GuarantCo) are hoping to do their first combined bond guarantee this year. “On tax incentives, we are not the authority to comment. But I can tell you that we have approached the General Department of Taxation (GDT) and made a representation asking if it would be possible for the government to give some sort of tax incentives for bond investors and those keen on green financing,” said Wong.

Credit to: Khmer  Times, Publish on 02 August 2024

Job Vacancy with CGCC – Head of Credit Management, Deputy Manager of Procurement

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia Plc. (CGCC) is a state-owned enterprise established under the Ministry of Economy and Finance. CGCC was recently set up to improve financial inclusion and develop the growth of SMEs in Cambodia. It plays an important role in the economic development of the country.

We are expanding our team! Join us, If you want to be part of the team, CGCC is urgently seeking qualified candidate for the following positions:

Head of Credit Management

1. Job Overview

  • Will be responsible for overseeing on credit evaluation, credit administration, claim management, Non-Performing Loan and recovery management, management of reporting, and operational credit documentation, supporting the development and enhancement of GMS (Guarantee Management System), managing team, and building a good relationship with PFI.
  • The internal ranking of this position is Manager.

2. Key Responsibilities:

  • Reporting to the Director of Centralized Operations (DCOP) in managing all aspects of centralized operations, including branch operations (if any) credit evaluation and credit administration, loan monitoring and recovery management, claim management, customer satisfaction, feedback management etc.
  • Assist the DCOP to be accountable for all credit evaluation and credit administration related matters e.g., ensure loan is approved within the provided Turn Around Time (TAT), manage claim request and proceed with claim settlement upon all term and conditions are fulfilled and accurate etc. and authorize all core systems data input (data amendments etc.)
  • Support and assist the DCOP on implementing operational matters of all CGCC’s credit guarantee schemes and bond guarantee to ensure the sustainability of CGCC’s product and service.
  • Assist the DCOP in supporting the development & enhancement of GMS (Guarantee Management System) and derive greater productivity and cost efficiency across all operational processes, including the review for process automation.
  • Assist the DCOP in management of reporting and operational credit documentation and periodic review on Portfolio Guarantee scheme (PGS).
  • Assist the DCOP to develop all credit management and loan monitoring related policies, standard operating procedures and framework and ensure the quality of credit documentation, specifically facility offer letters in line with the approved credit application, credit policies and procedures, prudential guidelines, and other relevant legislation.
  • Support and assist the DCOP to build and supervise a team of appropriate skills to assist him/her in carrying out his/her duties and ensure that they are trained accordingly.
  • Responsible for dealing with issues related to centralized operational matters with proper timeframe and building good relationships with PFIs.
  • Responsible for providing training to existing or new PFIs related to Guarantee Application Form (GAF) filing process and/or monthly report submission to ensure speed up the turnaround time.
  • Carry out any other duties and ad-hoc assignments assigned to him/her by the DCOP or Managements of the CGCC as and when required for CGCC.

3. Qualification Requirements

  • At least 5 years’ experience in the financial industry or banking sector related credit evaluation, credit admin, non-performing Loan, and recovery management.
  • Experience of managing team.
  • Bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, or a related field
  • Proficiency in relevant software and systems.
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet targets.
  • Age from 30s up to 40s.

 

Deputy Manager of Procurement

Key responsibilities:

  • Organize and prepare annual procurement plan to submit to the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) for review and approval.
  • Supervise and manage the implementation of the procurement plan and prepare quarterly, semi-annual, and annual procurement reports to submit to MEF.
  • Set up, develop, prepare, implement, and improve procurement policies and procedures.
  • Organize annual procurement plans and/or amendment of procurement plans in case of necessity.
  • Organize, monitor and manage all bidding processes for each type of procurement that is determined by the CGCC.
  • Organize to open the public competitive bidding with taking charge in reviewing by procurement committee.
  • Issue the notification on the decision to award contract to the successful bidders by copying it to all failed bidders & organize to advertise the result of bidding.
  • Prepare the report regarding procurement implementation as in Monthly, Quarterly, Semester, and Annual report.
  • Coordinate and facilitate all aspects of procurement procedures.
  • Ensure the CGCC’s procurement is in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations in Cambodia.
  • Carry out any other duties and ad-hoc assignments assigned by the Director of HCA.

Qualification Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
  • At least 3-5 years of experience in Procurement, Finance, or Administration.
  • Strong Communication and negotiation
  • Knowledge of MS. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project.
  • Good in English, Writing & Speaking.

 

Deadline: 31st July 2024

 

Investment Support for Post-Harvest Fishery Sector

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

PHNOM PENH – An Investment Support Facility (ISF) scheme was launched on May 29 to support fisheries operators with technology, financing, and value chains after the fishing season. 

The aim is to respond to challenges which include inadequate fish-processing technologies, limited value addition, and food safety concerns that impact consumer’s trust and global competitiveness, the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) says.

It is designed from the CAPFISH-Capture project that is built on the success of its current Value Chain Investment Support, also known as VCIS. It targets over 100 eligible enterprises in the fisheries value chain in addition to the 50 enterprises already being supported by VCIS.

Mey Vann, secretary of state of the Ministry of Economy and Finance and a council member of the Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC), said ISF is important in enhancing the fishery sector, as eligible enterprises will be able to access technical support, capacity building and financial assistance.

These include a grant and guaranteed loans with favorable conditions.

The scheme is a blended financing initiative co-founded by the European Union, the Fisheries Administration, UNIDO and CGCC.

It aims to assist fisheries enterprises after the fishery season, input suppliers, and value chain partners, as well as increase productivity with high quality and safety.

Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, said ISF will contribute to fishers at all levels in processing products in the post-fisheries season, because high quality and safety are the requirements for exports that will help expand productivity sustainably and responsibly.

Meanwhile, Dejene Tezera, UNIDO’s director of agri-business and infrastructure development, believes that such an initiative will “elevate the value and quantity of safe, high-quality fishery products, enabling fish processors to thrive in global markets.”

Investments in innovation and capacity building pave the way for a future where the sector “stand tall on the world stage, delivering excellence, reliability, and prosperity to local communities and beyond,” he said.

Igor Driesmans, EU Ambassador to Cambodia, believes that the ISF, aligned with the global market requirements, will boost the sector’s competitiveness and sustainability and reinforce economic expansion, public health safeguards and job creation.

Credit to: Cambodianess, Publish on 30 May 2024

Cambodia Offers Finance Scheme to Help Fishery Growth after Harvest

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

PHNOM PENH, May 29 (Xinhua) — Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration (FiA) on Wednesday launched an Investment Support Facility (ISF) scheme, aiming to catalyze growth in the country’s post-harvest fisheries.

The ISF scheme is a blended financing initiative in cooperation with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC) and co-funded by the European Union (EU), said a news release after the launching event.

With its rich fisheries resources, Cambodia holds great promise for excelling in the global fish and fishery products market. However, post-harvest fisheries face challenges such as inadequate fish-processing technologies, limited value addition, and food safety concerns impacting consumer trust and the sector’s competitiveness on a global scale, the news release said.

The ISF scheme was designed to support post-harvest fisheries enterprises and their input suppliers in overcoming these challenges, enhancing productivity and product safety and quality.

“This scheme blends co-financing from the enterprises’ own resources, guaranteed business loans distributed by the local financial institutions, and grant support from the project,” the news release said.

“This new scheme targets over 100 eligible enterprises in the fisheries value chain in addition to the 50 enterprises already being supported by the project’s Value Chain Investment Support,” it added.

Cambodian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Dith Tina reaffirmed the commitment to further advancing Cambodia’s fisheries sector to higher levels.

“The ISF is a good initiative to support the collaboration between the Fisheries Administration of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, UNIDO, and the private sector to promote growth in the post-harvest fisheries sector in Cambodia,” he said.

Tina is optimistic that the scheme will promote the processing of post-harvest fishery products to higher standard and quality, as well as provide economic benefits to fishermen and processing enterprises.

Credit to: Xinhua, Published on 29 May 2024

MAFF and Partners Launch $7 mil Fisheries Project

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

The government and its development partners, through the Cambodia Programme for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth in the Fisheries Sector (CAPFISH-Capture), launched an Investment Support Facility (ISF) project with $7 million in funds for boosting Cambodia’s fisheries sector yesterday.

The European Union (EU)-funded CAPFISH-Capture Programme and its Post-harvest Fisheries Development project, the Fisheries Administration (FiA) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC) are joining forces to embark on and fund a groundbreaking ISF scheme aimed at catalysing growth in the post-harvest fisheries sector.

The partners released a joint statement yesterday, “With its rich fisheries resources and cultural heritage, Cambodia holds great promise for excelling in the global fish and fishery products market”.

“However, post-harvest fisheries face challenges such as inadequate fish-processing technologies, limited value-addition, and food safety concerns which are impacting consumer trust and the sector’s competitiveness on a global scale,” it said.

“Building on the success of its current Value Chain Investment Support (VCIS), the project has designed the ISF scheme to support post-harvest fisheries enterprises and their input suppliers in overcoming these challenges and enhancing productivity, product safety, and quality,” it said.

“This scheme blends co-financing from the enterprises’ own resources, guaranteed business loans distributed by the local financial institutions, and grant support from the project,” it added.

“This new scheme is supported by a fund of $7 million and targets over 100 eligible enterprises in the fisheries value chain in addition to the 50 enterprises already supported by the project,” it added.

The project launch was chaired jointly by Igor Driesmans, EU Ambassador to Cambodia, and Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra Hotel, yesterday.

Driesmans lauded the timely launch of the scheme, saying, “By harmonising with global market requirements, including those of the EU, the ISF will not only help boost competitiveness and sustainability but also underpin economic expansion, public health safeguards, and local job creation in the sector.”

“I am optimistic that the success of the ISF in this sector will inspire replication and scale up in other agricultural sub-sectors, catalysing holistic development, bringing more investment in the sector and prosperity,” the EU Ambassador added.

Acknowledging the invaluable support from the EU and UNIDO for bolstering food safety and fisheries’ sustainable development, Tina reaffirmed his commitment to further elevate the country’s fisheries sector to new levels of success.

In line with the government’s Pentagonal Strategy, the minister said that the ISF is a good initiative to support collaboration between the FiA, UNIDO, and the private sector to promote growth in the post-harvest fisheries sector in Cambodia.

“I am positive that this project, which will be implemented by the CAPFISH-Capture programme, will promote the processing of post-harvest fishery products to a higher standard and quality, as well as provide economic benefits to fishermen and processing enterprises,” he said.

Mey Vann, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) and Member of the Board of Directors of the CGCC, said that the CGCC has been selected to manage the ISF scheme in partnership with commercial banks and microfinance institutions.

“The ISF plays a crucial role in enhancing Cambodia’s fishery sector. Through ISF, eligible enterprises in the post-harvest fishery sector will be able to access technical support, capacity building, and financial assistance, including grants and guaranteed loans with favourable conditions,” he said.

“The ISF will contribute to the national economic growth, modernisation, and development of the agricultural sector,” Vann noted.

Dejene Tezera, UNIDO’s Director of Agri-Business and Infrastructure Development, said that “We are proud to introduce the ISF scheme for this sector”.

“Based on UNIDO’s solid experience in innovative financing and value chain development, we firmly believe that this innovative financial model will elevate the value and quantity of safe, high-quality fishery products, enabling fish processors to thrive in global markets,” he said.

Credit to: Khmer Times, Publish on 30 May 2024

CGCC Participating in the 47th Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP)

Posted on by Sorn Chhorvyvatey

Mr. Wong Keet Loong, CEO of CGCC, led the CGCC’s team to participate in the 47th ADFIAP Annual Meeting from 15 to 17 May 2024, at Sofitel Phnom Penh, hosted by the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB) of Cambodia.

The 47th ADFIAP Annual Meetings is attended by more than 400 participants from more than 40 countries who are ADFIAP members, representatives from developing partners, representatives from the private sector, and other relevant stakeholders to share experiences from the countries in the Asia Pacific under the topic “DFIs’ Role in Sustainable Finance Ecosystem: Cultivating a climate-smart and sustainable future”. CGCC also submitted an application to be a member of ADFIAP through this annual meeting as well.