ក្រសួង​សេដ្ឋកិច្ច ​និង​ហិរញ្ញវត្ថុ

Overview

The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) of Cambodia, established in 1993, is the central governmental body responsible for the administration of economic and financial policies in the Kingdom of Cambodia. Headquartered in Phnom Penh, the MEF plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation's economic landscape through strategic planning, fiscal management and policy implementation.

History and Legal Framework

The MEF was formally established by law in 1993, with its organizational structure and functions defined by a sub-decree of the Royal Government of Cambodia. The minister responsible for the MEF is selected by the Prime Minister and nominated by the King, with appointment confirmed by the National Assembly through a royal decree.

Mission, Vision and Objectives in Higher Education

While the MEF does not have a direct mandate over higher education, it plays a significant role in supporting the education sector through fiscal policies that allocate funding for educational institutions. The ministry's broader economic strategies aim to foster a conducive environment for educational development, thereby indirectly influencing the quality and accessibility of higher education in Cambodia.

Governance, Structure and Independence

The MEF operates under the jurisdiction of the Cambodian government, with its structure comprising various departments and units dedicated to specific economic and financial domains. The ministry's leadership is headed by the Minister, who is appointed by the Prime Minister and is responsible for setting policies and overseeing the implementation of economic and financial initiatives. The MEF maintains a degree of operational independence to effectively manage and promote Cambodia's economic affairs.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

While the MEF is not directly involved in the accreditation of higher education institutions, it collaborates with relevant governmental bodies to ensure that financial resources are appropriately allocated to support quality education. The ministry's role in budgeting and financial planning indirectly impacts the capacity of educational institutions to meet quality standards.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

The MEF actively engages in international collaborations to promote economic development and financial stability. Notable partnerships include:

• United States: In July 2025, the MEF participated in discussions with U.S. officials to address trade and economic issues, including the imposition of new tariffs and their impact on Cambodian exports.
• China: In April 2025, the MEF engaged with Chinese counterparts during President Xi Jinping's visit to Cambodia, seeking increased financial support for infrastructure projects amidst ongoing trade tensions with the U.S.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

The MEF's economic policies and budget allocations have a significant impact on the higher education sector. By determining the financial resources available for educational institutions, the MEF influences the quality of education, infrastructure development and the capacity of institutions to implement modern teaching methodologies. Future economic strategies aimed at sustainable development are expected to further enhance the role of higher education in Cambodia's economic growth.

Summary

The Ministry of Economy and Finance of Cambodia plays a crucial role in shaping the nation's economic policies and ensuring the effective allocation of financial resources. While not directly overseeing higher education, the MEF's fiscal strategies significantly influence the development and quality of educational institutions, thereby contributing to the broader goal of national development.

FAQs

• What is the primary role of the Ministry of Economy and Finance in Cambodia?
  The MEF is responsible for managing the country's economic and financial policies, including budgeting, fiscal planning and economic strategy development.
• Does the Ministry of Economy and Finance oversee higher education?
  While the MEF does not have a direct mandate over higher education, its fiscal policies and budget allocations significantly impact the sector.
• How does the Ministry of Economy and Finance collaborate internationally?
  The MEF engages in partnerships with various countries, including the United States and China, to promote economic development and address financial challenges.
• What impact does the Ministry of Economy and Finance have on higher education?
  The MEF influences the quality and accessibility of higher education through its economic policies and financial planning, which determine the resources available for educational institutions.

Organization Name

ក្រសួង​សេដ្ឋកិច្ច ​និង​ហិរញ្ញវត្ថុ

Ministry of Economy and Finance

Acronym

MEF

Year of Establishment

1993

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

92, Sangkat Wat Phnom, Khan Daun Penh
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Cambodia

Phone

+855 (23) 724 664

Fax

+855 (23) 427 798

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Ministry of Economy and Finance's Facebook page

X (Twitter)

Not available

LinkedIn

Not available

YouTube

Not available

Instagram

Not available

Wikipedia Article

Ministry of Economy and Finance's Wikipedia article

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