BCT, EIB discuss ways to foster SMEs access to funding

Tunis: Governor of the Central Bank of Tunisia (BCT) Fethi Zouhair Nouri and Head of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Representation to Algeria and Tunisia Jean-Luc Revéreault had a talk on Wednesday.The need to foster increased access to project funding whether in the public and private sector was emphasised. This in addition to changing paradigm in using financing lines.The meeting offered the opportunity to identify two priorities, namely a continued support for small and medium-sized enterprises - seen as an engine for the creation of wealth and jobs- and innovation by means of providing dedicated funding tailored to the needs of micro-entreprises, the BCT said on Thursday.BCT Governor said it is necessary to provide these enterprises with specific funding resources in line with their size and which meet their needs in a bid to help them expand and innovate."It is highly important to lend particular attention to SMEs operating mainly in environment-related segments and energy transition, Zouhair Nouri further said. The Central Bank is keen to contribute to revamping the approach of access to funding.The two institutions have convergent approaches, Jean-Luc Revéreaul said. The EIB is committed to supporting SMEs and micro-entreprises in Tunisia and stepping up collaboration with the BCT.He invited the support of the Central Bank to ease access to funding for these businesses, particularly micro-entreprises.There is need to work in concert on Tunisian priorities and objectives to create an environment conducive to a full contribution of all enterprises of all sizes to the Tunisian economy.Source: Agence Tunis Afrique Presse