PHNOM PENH: On April 4, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister of Economy and Finance, Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth, met with Mr. Kenichiro Kashiwase, Mission Chief of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), to discuss the Cambodian economic situation. During the meeting, Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth confirmed that the Cambodian economy has demonstrated resilience despite significant external uncertainties. He noted that while some sectors have exceeded initial projections, others may experience a decline compared to earlier estimates.
Specifically, regarding the impact of potential US import tariffs, particularly the US Reciprocal Tariffs policy, Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth emphasized the Royal Government of Cambodia’s proactive approach. As reported by AKP on Thursday, the government has been diligently monitoring the situation and has swiftly established a working group. This group is tasked with assessing the consequences of the US Reciprocal Tariffs policy and developing necessary measures to ensure trade stability with international partners. Furthermore, the working group aims to enhance Cambodia’s competitiveness in both the short and medium term.
Concerning the medium-term public finance outlook, Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth stated the Royal Government’s commitment to strengthening revenue collection, improving spending efficiency, and building budget reserves. He highlighted the recent launch of the “Revenue Mobilization Strategy (RMS) of the 7th National Assembly” in early 2025 and the ongoing preparation of other policy frameworks, including the “Program to Enhance Competitiveness, Increase Diversification, and Strengthen Resilience for Economic Growth in a Global Environment of High Uncertainty 2024-2028” and the “Medium-Term Public Finance Framework 2026-2028.”
Mr. Kenichiro Kashiwase commended the Royal Government of Cambodia for its proactive economic and public finance management, acknowledging the nation’s growth achievements and progress towards long-term objectives.
The IMF team pledged to continue monitoring and evaluating the impact of US policies on the Cambodian economy. They also committed to providing recommendations and collaborating with the Royal Government to ensure macroeconomic and public financial sustainability and stability.
The IMF further expressed its commitment to offering technical assistance on the Royal Government’s priorities, particularly exploring the implementation of Policy Coordination Instruments (PCI). PCI is an IMF initiative designed to facilitate and strengthen dialogue with partner countries on reform efforts and mobilize financing resources.