Passing of H.E. Chea Chanto, former Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia

This weekend, many Cambodian leaders offered their condolences to the family of H.E. Chea Chanto, former Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia, Honorary Governor of the National Bank and Member of Parliament for Kampong Thom province, who died at the age of 73 on 25 October 2024 as a result of illness.

H.E. Chea Chanto

In a message to the former governor's spouse, Khiev Sina, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed his deep sadness at the death. He described it as the loss of ‘an outstanding personality who contributed significantly to Cambodia's economic growth and represented the nation on the international stage’.

‘H.E. Chea Chanto's role in shaping Cambodia's monetary policy was crucial to the country's social and economic development,’ he wrote.

Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly, also conveyed his condolences to Mr Chanto's family, acknowledging his significant contributions to the development of Cambodia's banking and financial sectors. He also highlighted his role in strengthening economic policy, the currency and the use of the Riel, which have played a key role in the country's economic growth.

H.E. Chea Chanto served as Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia from 1998 until 2023. Prior to that, he was Minister of Planning from 1986 to 1998.

He has devoted his career to the stabilisation and development of Cambodia's banking and monetary systems. During his tenure, he was recognised for his leadership in implementing policies that supported financial growth and economic stability.

His contribution to the banking sector has won him international awards. In 2021, he was named Asia-Pacific Central Banker of the Year by The Banker, a prestigious award given to selected central bankers from around the world for their impact on economic growth and stability. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was noted for helping Cambodia overcome financial uncertainties through effective measures.

Chea Chanto has also distinguished himself in his academic field. In 1995, he received an honorary doctorate in business administration from the University of Southern California and a doctorate in economics from Hanoi University in 1990. In 2018, he was awarded Honorary Membership of the Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers for his significant contribution to banking and finance in Asia.

Chea Chanto's family legacy in banking continues through his daughter, H.E. Chea Serey, who succeeded him as Governor of BNC last year.

A funeral ceremony will be held at his residence on Machin Terk Road in Chroy Changva, allowing friends, family and colleagues to pay their last respects to the leader.