In May 2026, OeEB signed a USD 15 million credit line with Asia Alliance Bank in Uzbekistan. The investment aims to expand access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), with a particular focus on women-owned businesses and green finance.
| Project name | Asia Alliance Bank |
| Region | Central Asia |
| Sector | Financial sector / Microfinance / SME |
| Service | Investments & Financing |
| Project country | Uzbekistan |
| OeEB project volume | USD 15 million |
| International climate finance according to UNFCCC | Partially eligible |
| Additionality | Financial Additionality |
| Project partner(s) | Asia Alliance Bank |
The credit line is designed to improve access to finance for underserved segments and to support the growth potential of MSMEs in Uzbekistan. As a key pillar of the economy, these enterprises often face limited access to long-term financing.
A strong focus is placed on women-owned businesses. At least 40% of the funds will be allocated to companies that are majority-owned by women. This contributes significantly to gender equality as well as to women’s economic participation and financial independence.
Up to 20% of the credit line is earmarked for green finance and will support the further development of the bank’s green finance portfolio. The focus is on energy efficiency and renewable energy investments, particularly photovoltaic systems. Currently, such financing accounts for around 7% of the bank’s portfolio.
In parallel, OeEB supports the strengthening of the bank’s environmental and social standards. This includes the development of an Environmental & Social Management System as well as the implementation of international best practices in responsible lending.
Asia Alliance Bank is a growing financial institution with a strong focus on MSME financing and digital banking services. It plays an important role in expanding access to formal financial services, particularly for underserved populations in Uzbekistan.