In 2014, IFC approved an equity investment of US$17.5 million for a 19.99% ownership stake in Amret Microfinance Institution PLC (Amret), the second-largest microfinance institution in Cambodia as well as a US$10 million senior bank loan. The objective of this investment was to support Amret’s transformation and long-term development strategy. According to IFC’s disclosure, Amret aims to offer a wide range of financial services to low-income individuals as well as small- and medium-sized entrepreneurs, contributing significantly to economic and social development in Cambodia. Through this investment, IFC intended to deepen its engagement in Cambodia’s microfinance sector, signaling strengthened confidence in its growth and impact.

In January 2026, CAO received a complaint from a community member from the Kandal region, concerning Amret, an IFC client. The complainant raised concerns about the negative effects on their livelihood and well-being linked to Amret’s lending and debt collection practices. The complainant stated that the repayment arrangement proposed by Amret included a condition related to selling her land within a defined period leading to pressure regarding the potential sale of the land to meet the repayment obligations. The complainant also noted that local grievance mechanisms were ineffective. 
 

In April 2026, CAO found the complaint eligible and initiated an assessment.