The EBRD will provide Eximbank with a 5 million euro loan for on-lending to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Moldova.
As noted in the materials of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the loan is planned to be provided in two equal tranches within the framework of the Program for increasing the competitiveness of SMEs in the EU Eastern Partnership. In addition to long-term financing, eligible sub-borrowers will receive EU-funded technical assistance as well as grant assistance in the form of investment incentives. The Eastern Partnership SME Competitiveness Program continues the ongoing Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) Blended Finance Program with the EU developed for Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine to support the modernization of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to EU standards. The proposed project will enable Eximbank to provide investment loans to local SMEs by financing the modernization of technologies and equipment required to meet EU standards in terms of product quality, health and safety and environmental protection measures. At least 70% of all financed sub-loans are expected to be in line with the EBRD's green economy transition approach. According to the EBRD, Eximbank will expand its SME portfolio with a focus on financing investments leading to compliance with EU directives, which will help improve the competitiveness of Moldovan SMEs.//11.01.2022 – InfoMarket.
