In a significant step towards fostering sustainable growth, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Eskhata Bank have partnered to enhance green finance in Tajikistan. The agreement, signed on December 19, 2025, will increase access to green financing for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which are key drivers of job creation and economic development.
$10 Million Loan to Support MSMEs
As part of the agreement, ADB will provide a local currency loan equivalent to $10 million to Eskhata Bank. This financing will boost the bank’s ability to lend to MSMEs in Tajikistan, reducing foreign exchange risks and strengthening the country’s financial resilience. Additionally, the financing includes a partial credit guarantee of up to $5 million from the Asian Development Fund’s (ADF) Private Sector Window (PSW), aimed at making loans more affordable for small businesses.
Support for MSMEs and Economic Growth
The green finance initiative is part of ADB’s broader commitment to private sector development in Tajikistan. According to Ko Sakamoto, ADB’s Country Director for Tajikistan, this partnership will benefit hundreds of businesses, help drive innovation, and contribute to a more resilient economy. Eskhata Bank, one of the country’s leading commercial banks, has a strong track record in supporting MSMEs and offering digital financial services. The new funding will allow the bank to expand its reach and offer tailored financial solutions to entrepreneurs across the nation.
ADB’s Ongoing Commitment to Tajikistan
Tajikistan joined ADB in 1998, and the partnership has already resulted in significant improvements in the country’s infrastructure. ADB has supported critical transport links, modernized irrigation and water supply systems, and aided in the construction of hospitals and schools. The new green finance initiative adds to ADB’s ongoing support for sustainable development in Tajikistan, which includes projects on glacier monitoring and disaster resilience.
