SDFC expands funding assistance for reef fishers, related SMEs

The SME Development Finance Corporation (SDFC) has added new categories to the 'Kandufalhuge Nafaa' loan facility; specifically "targeted toward supporting the growth and development of reef fisheries".

SDFC will issue up to a maximum of MVR 700,000 in funding towards the development of reef fisheries; by way of financing either local fishers or small-to-medium (SMEs) enterprises operating in reef fishing activities.

The loan facility is subject to an interest rate of 5% with a six-month grace period, and a 10-year repayment period.

SDFC further highlights that all the vessels financed under the loan would be held as collateral or mortgage.

Expenses exceeding the maximum MVR 700,000 ceiling of the loan facility should be incurred by the debtor, added SDFC.

The facility is specifically targeted for reef fishers, suppliers of reef fish; either processed, packed or frozen to be sold at industrial capacity, exporters, and local suppliers from the atolls.

SDFC further highlighted that the facility is aimed at boosting specific activities of any individual or SME operating in reef fisheries sector, and they include;

• To develop a new vessel or repair existing vessel used in reef fisheries activities
• Installation of engines in vessels used for reef fishing
• Procurement/purchase of equipment used in navigating or commandeering the vessel
• For repairs and modifications of a vessel used in reef fishing
• Procurement/purchase of fish processing machinery and equipment
• Procurement/purchase of packing materials and equipment