Cambodia Clean Water Forum was organzied on July 24, 2024 to strengthen collaboration among public and private water operators, as well as financial institutions, to enhance water supply services across the country.

Presided over by H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, the forum gathered over 500 stakeholders to discuss the implementation of the Law on Clean Water Management and enforcement of license requirements. 

Minister Vanndy noted that the government has given a large space for the private sector to service the populace. He emphasized the importance of a reliable clean water supply not only for household consumption and public health but also for attracting investment and supporting industrial development.

The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI) is currently assessing water supply services nationwide, and is negotiating with financial institutions to prioritize funding for the sector. SME Bank, as a key stakeholder in this effort, reported to the forum that water supply has become a priority sector for lending, and it has already approved around USD 14 million in low-interest loans for private water operators.

The forum included presentations from financial institutions such as the Association of Banks in Cambodia, the Cambodia Microfinance Association, showcasing financial products designed for the water supply sector. The Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia also reported that is has guaranteed loans totaling USD 201 million, with part benefiting clean water projects.

During the forum, private water operators called on the government for interventions, including address compensation for damages caused by infrastructure projects and support in establishing more sustainable water sources. 

Minister Vanndy addressed those requests and stressed the key role of the Cambodia Water Supply Association. He urged public water utilities and all private water operators to step up their efforts, particularly in improving technical capacity and compliance, to enhance water quality and access across the country.