Cambodian Insurance Sector Sees Premiums Slip

Cambodia’s insurance sector recorded a marginal decline in gross premiums in November 2025, reflecting a mixed performance across life and general insurance segments, according to data released by the Insurance Regulator of Cambodia.

Gross written premiums fell by 0.1% year-on-year (YoY), reaching $26.3 million in November, as the life insurance market experienced a noticeable contraction. Life insurance premiums dropped 3% YoY to $15.8 million, weighed down by reduced consumer demand and a decline in new policy subscriptions.

Conversely, the general insurance segment demonstrated resilience, registering a 4% YoY increase to $10.5 million, driven by stronger uptake in motor, property, and health insurance policies. Analysts note that this segment’s growth partially offset the overall decline in total premiums.

The total number of insurance policies fell sharply by 14% YoY to 485,575, reflecting contrasting trends between the two market segments. General insurance policies surged by 199% YoY to 60,709, while life insurance policies contracted by 22% YoY, standing at 424,866.

Despite the drop in policy numbers, the total sum insured rose by 15% YoY, reaching $6.1 billion, suggesting that while fewer policies were sold, policyholders opted for higher coverage amounts. Meanwhile, gross claims paid by insurers fell 5% YoY to $5.8 million, highlighting a reduction in claim settlements during the period.

Key Metrics – Cambodian Insurance Sector (November 2025)

Metric Life Insurance General Insurance Total YoY Change
Gross Premiums ($ million) 15.8 10.5 26.3 -0.1%
Number of Policies 424,866 60,709 485,575 -14%
Policy Growth/Decline (%) -22% 199%
Total Sum Insured ($ billion) 6.1 +15%
Gross Claims ($ million) 5.8 -5%

Industry observers suggest that the contrasting dynamics between life and general insurance reflect evolving consumer priorities, with a growing focus on short-term, high-coverage general insurance products, while life insurance continues to face challenges in market penetration and policy retention.

The regulator has emphasised the need for insurers to innovate and diversify offerings, particularly in the life insurance sector, to stimulate growth and bolster long-term market stability.

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