## People’s Bank Bolsters MSME Sector with Concessionary Financing 📈

People’s Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) sector, positioning it as the backbone of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and regional development. • Strategic Focus: The bank is targeting the full business life cycle—from startups to established firms—leveraging its island-wide network to reach rural and underserved communities. • Loan Portfolios & Rates: • Interest Rates: Ranging from 7.0% to 12.0% p.a. for bank-funded schemes. • Key Products: Includes the SME Development (SMED) Scheme, Business Power, Solar & Green Power loans, and the People’s SPARK program. • Facilities: Tailored support for working capital, machinery/expansion, and trade finance (import/export). • Sector Coverage: Priority is given to high-impact industries including agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, construction, logistics, and services. • Government Alignment: In addition to its own funds, the bank facilitates Government-backed concessionary schemes featuring lower-than-market interest rates and extended tenures based on project viability. • Access: Entrepreneurs can access these facilities through any local branch, where specialized credit officers provide advisory support and eligibility assessments.