The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, has announced a major investment initiative worth US$166 million to support Sri Lankan businesses and help move the economy from stabilization toward sustainable expansion.
In a statement, the IFC said the funding underscores its continued commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka’s private sector. The country-focused financing program is designed to widen access to credit for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly women-owned businesses and companies operating in the agri-business sector, with the aim of promoting inclusive growth and job creation.
The investment has been channeled through three leading private commercial banks in Sri Lanka and includes a US$50 million loan, US$80 million in Risk-Sharing Facilities, and US$36 million allocated for trade finance support.
Although SMEs make up more than 75 percent of businesses in Sri Lanka and provide around 45 percent of total employment, limited access to financing continues to constrain their growth. The IFC noted that this initiative aligns with national development priorities and World Bank Group objectives, offering targeted solutions to help SMEs overcome financing challenges and enhance economic resilience.
The IFC also highlighted its recent contribution to strengthening the country’s financial framework through the launch of a Secured Transactions Registry, which is expected to further improve credit access for small and medium-sized businesses.
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