SCB Drives Sustainable Finance to Green SMEs
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), in collaboration with the Thai Bankers’ Association and the Federation of Thai Industries, has joined the “Transition Finance for Low Carbon Industries” initiative. The bank is offering unsecured “Sustainable Finance” with a special interest rate of 3.25% p.a., repayment terms of up to 10 years, and working capital loans up to 50 million baht.
The initiative aims to help SMEs transition toward environmentally friendly operations and concretely reduce greenhouse gas emissions — a crucial step for the long-term survival of Thai industry. The announcement was made with the participation of Mr. Yunyong Thaicharoen, Chief Economist and Sustainability Officer, and Ms. Kongkaew Boonprasit, Executive Vice President, Business Banking L2 at SCB.
SCB is among nine commercial banks committed to supporting SMEs in transitioning to low-carbon industries. Together, the participating banks have co-developed sustainable loan products for potential SMEs through the Federation of Thai Industries, targeting a combined loan portfolio of at least 5 billion baht accessible for SME investment in eco-friendly projects. SCB Sustainable Financing offerings include:
• Sustainable Business Loans with a 3.25% interest rate (for the first year) and repayment terms up to 10 years
• Unsecured Working Capital Loans with a credit line up to 50 million baht
• Green Energy Vehicle Hire-Purchase Loans with a credit line up to 30 million baht and repayment terms up to 5 years
Transitioning to a low-carbon economy is no longer just a trend; it is a necessity for industries to survive. SCB is committed to being a strategic partner for clients aiming to become environmentally responsible businesses. These sustainable loans will help SMEs feasibly reduce long-term costs and greenhouse gas emissions through investments in energy-saving equipment such as solar panels, wastewater treatment systems, EV charging stations, and waste-to-energy technologies. These changes will also open doors to eco-conscious customers and partners, enhancing future business competitiveness.
SCB continues to support SMEs in adapting to a low-carbon economy by offering knowledge through sustainability seminars and programs. The bank also monitors and evaluates greenhouse gas emissions by participating businesses under the “ESG Start Now, Start to Survive” program, an extension of the “Live Sustainably” initiative. The goal is to help transform the entire SME portfolio into environmentally friendly businesses.