Bangkok: SME D Bank has announced an investment of 3,500 million baht to introduce two new loan programs aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Thailand. The loans, named 'Smile Biz (2025)' and 'Jiw Sud Jaew Plus', are intended to provide financial assistance for investment and development purposes.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pichit Mitrawong, President of the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank of Thailand (SME D Bank), expressed concern over the challenges faced by SME entrepreneurs and supply chain partners due to the economic slowdown. This downturn is attributed to factors such as trade war uncertainties, an influx of foreign goods, natural disasters, and earthquakes, which have impacted confidence across various sectors, including tourism.
The bank's initiative aims to offer accessible funding to businesses of all sizes within the manufacturing, service, and wholesale and retail sectors. The loans are designed to enhance business liquidity and sustain employment in the SME sector. Notably, the loans come with relaxed conditions, such as no requirement for collateral, with SME D Bank acting as a guarantor. The 'Smile Biz Loan, Smiling Business (2025)' has a credit line of 3,000 million baht, while the 'Small and Super Cool Plus Loan' is set at 500 million baht.
The 'Smile Biz Loan (2025)' caters to SMEs with annual incomes exceeding 1.8 million baht, offering a maximum loan of 3 million baht per applicant. It features an interest rate starting at MLR -1% per year, with a repayment period of up to 7 years and a principal repayment exemption for up to 6 months. Applications are open until May 31, 2026, or until funds are depleted. On the other hand, the 'Small and Super Cool Plus Micro Loan' is aimed at SMEs with incomes not exceeding 1.8 million baht, providing loans ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 baht with an interest rate of MRR +5.35% per year. This loan also requires no collateral and offers a repayment period of up to 5 years, with applications accepted until June 30, 2026.
Mr. Phichit emphasized that these loans are available to all types of SME entrepreneurs, including retail, wholesale, online, tourism, and related sectors. The funding aims to increase liquidity and serve as financial reserves, enabling businesses to navigate the economic challenges effectively.
Additionally, SME D Bank offers comprehensive business development services through its DX by SME D Bank platform. This includes tools such as a 'Business Health Check' system, E-Learning courses, the SME D Activity system for knowledge enhancement, the SME D Coach system for professional advice, the SME D Market system for market expansion, and the SME D Privilege system for special benefits.