The OPEC Fund for International Development has extended a US$50 million loan to Southeast Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (SeABank) to enhance financing for small businesses and climate-focused investments across Viet Nam, according to a press release dated July 13, 2026.
The loan will enable SeABank to increase lending to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which account for approximately half of employment in Viet Nam but continue to face a significant financing gap. Part of the funding will also support investments in energy efficiency, green buildings, rooftop solar, and electric mobility.
OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa stated, "Small businesses are central to Viet Nam's economy and an important source of jobs and growth. This financing will help more companies access the capital they need to invest and expand, while supporting practical climate solutions that can strengthen competitiveness and resilience."
The new loan agreement strengthens the partnership between SeABank and the OPEC Fund, which began in 2022 with a first loan supporting local SMEs—including women-owned businesses—as well as climate projects.
Le Thu Thuy, SeABank's Vice Chairwoman of the Board of Directors, commented, "This financing marks an important milestone in our partnership with the OPEC Fund, reinforcing SeABank's commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth. It also advances our role as a financial intermediary in mobilizing and channeling international capital to support Viet Nam's sustainable development priorities."
Viet Nam's MSMEs face a financing gap estimated at over US$20 billion, and this loan aims to address that by providing capital to a key financial institution. Additionally, the climate component aligns with Viet Nam's commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a greener economy. The loan supports projects that reduce energy consumption and promote renewable energy, which are critical for the country's sustainable development goals.
SeABank, one of Viet Nam's leading commercial banks, will use the funds to offer loans with favorable terms to MSMEs and green projects. This initiative is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to environmental sustainability. The partnership underscores the role of international financial institutions in supporting developing countries' dual objectives of economic development and climate action.
The press release is available on the SeABank website at SeABank.
