EBRD Signs Agreements with Amen Bank and UBCI to Launch Green Economy Finance Facility in Tunisia
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) signed two agreements with Amen Bank and UBCI on October 13, 2025, to launch the Green Economy Finance Facility (GEFF) program in Tunisia. This green financing mechanism is worth €60 million and is designed to support Tunisian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Nodira Mansurova, head of the EBRD's Tunisia office, emphasized that this project is the result of three to four years of intensive collaboration with Tunisian authorities. When she arrived four years ago, she noted the absence of credit lines in her portfolio, which she attributed to the country's financial difficulties.
The implementation of this innovative structure required in-depth work with the EBRD's financing department and her colleague Helda Frech, who dedicated three years to developing this financial product. Mansurova highlighted the challenges faced by Tunisian SMEs, including a lack of knowledge and expertise that hinders their growth. To address this, the EBRD plans to mobilize its team of specialized advisors in emerging market development and business structuring.
The Facility
The project benefits from a €20 million grant from the European Union. The total envelope is divided into €40 million for banks and €20 million for microfinance and leasing.
The facility is distinguished by three innovative pillars:
- Technical assistance to partner banks to identify green projects
- Direct subsidies of 10 to 15% of the total cost paid to SMEs after implementation
- A TCX guarantee mechanism that reduces coverage costs for banks
SMEs from all sectors (with fewer than 250 employees) can benefit from this financing for projects related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, waste reduction, and sustainable construction. This initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enable Tunisian exporters to comply with future European regulations on carbon footprint.
The GEFF program is expected to have a positive impact on the Tunisian economy and environment, and the EBRD is committed to supporting the country's transition to a green economy.
