Illustrative image (Photo: VNA)Only 30 percent of small- and medium- sized enterprises (SMEs) are eligible for bank loans, Deputy Director of the Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM) Vo Tri Thanh said during a workshop held in Hanoi on September 24.
Economist Nguyen Dai Lai pointed out that low credit ratings and competitiveness have hindered their access to loans.
According to Cao Sy Kiem, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, bank loans have been a major capital source for SMEs. However, some are unable to fulfil legal terms while others lack the competency to utilise the money effectively.
Cumbersome procedures and inequitable policies are also barriers, he said, adding that the Government has recently stepped in to address the issues but difficulties remain.
Dr Nguyen Dai Lai and Dr Le Tham Duong from the Ho Chi Minh City Banking University agreed that proving their ability to settle debts is essential for SMEs to enhance their access to bank loans.
There are more than 400,000 SMEs operating nationwide, accounting for 97 percent of overall active businesses.-VNA
