IFC Invests $166 Million to Support Sri Lankan SMEs

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has announced an investment of $166 million to support Sri Lankan businesses and accelerate the country’s transition from economic stabilization to sustainable growth.

This comprehensive country-level financing package aims to expand financial access for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a focus on empowering women-owned businesses and the agri-business sector.

By targeting these key areas of Sri Lanka’s economy, the financing seeks to drive inclusive growth and unlock job opportunities for underserved groups.

This investment has been made strategically in three of Sri Lanka’s leading commercial private banks – comprising a $50 million loan, $80 million in Risk-Sharing Facilities (RSFs), and $36 million in trade finance support.

Aligned with both the World Bank Group and key national priorities, this partnership aims to deliver targeted solutions for SMEs, helping businesses overcome challenges and supporting the country’s long-term economic resilience.

Recently, IFC also helped strengthen Sri Lanka’s financial infrastructure by launching a Secured Transactions Registry (STR), enabling greater credit access for SMEs.