The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Eskhata Bank Open Joint Stock Company have signed agreements to strengthen access to green finance for Tajikistan’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)—essential drivers of job creation and inclusive economic growth.
Under the agreements, ADB will provide a local currency loan equivalent to $10 million to Eskhata Bank, boosting the bank’s lending capacity for MSMEs. The loan marks ADB’s first local currency financing to a commercial bank in Tajikistan and will help reduce foreign exchange risks while strengthening the resilience of the financial sector.
To increase the project’s development impact and improve loan affordability for MSMEs, the financing will also include a partial credit guarantee up to $5 million from the Asian Development Fund’s (ADF) Private Sector Window (PSW).
“This project underscores ADB’s commitment to private sector development in the country,” said ADB Country Director for Tajikistan Ko Sakamoto. “Our partnership with Eskhata Bank will benefit hundreds of businesses, create jobs, drive innovation, and contribute to a more resilient economy.”
Eskhata Bank, one of Tajikistan’s leading commercial banks, has a strong track record in serving MSMEs and promoting digital financial services. The new funding will enable the bank to expand its outreach and offer tailored financial solutions to entrepreneurs across the country.
