CBSL Extends Relief Measures for Affected SMEs, Offers Further Concessions

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has announced an extension of relief measures and additional concessions for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that have been adversely affected in the recent past. This move aims to facilitate the sustainable revival of these businesses.

Licensed commercial banks and licensed specialized banks have been advised by the CBSL to provide further support to SME borrowers who initiated discussions for business revival with their respective banks by March 31, 2025. These relief measures are in alignment with CBSL Circular No. 04 of 2024 dated December 19, 2024, and Addendum Circular No. 01 of 2025 dated January 1, 2025.

The new directives encourage licensed banks to offer additional concessions, including interest reliefs and new lending facilities, to eligible affected borrowers. Furthermore, the deadline for licensed banks to enter into reschedulement agreements with these SME borrowers has been extended from June 15, 2025, to June 30, 2025.

SME borrowers who had previously engaged with licensed banks for business revival discussions, as outlined in the aforementioned circulars, are encouraged to contact their respective banks for further details regarding these enhanced relief measures.