Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP)

ADFIAP.NET Explained: Harnessing Data for Global Sustainability The platform leverages the collective power of shared data to foster unprecedented collaboration among member institutions. Through this collaborative effort, ADFIAP.NET aims to pioneer innovative applications, services, and solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also tailored to meet the diverse needs of developing economies.

Member News: BPMB hails as ‘Bank of the Year’ for championing community and education at CSR Malaysia Awards 2024 Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (BPMB) has been honored as the “Bank of the Year (Development Bank): Community and Education Empowerment” at the Sustainability and CSR Malaysia Awards 2024. This recognition highlights BPMB’s significant role in advancing education and community development, reinforcing its commitment to Malaysia’s socio-economic transformation. The award ceremony, held in Kuala Lumpur, celebrated corporations making impactful contributions to sustainable economies and community welfare. Roni Abdulwahab, BPMB’s Group CEO, emphasized the bank’s mission to balance social impact with economic growth. At the same time, Chief Human Resource Officer Sainursalwa Sani reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to excellence in its CSR initiatives. BPMB’s CSR efforts are centered on community development, women empowerment, financial literacy, and environmental sustainability, primarily through its foundation, Amanah Lestari Alam (ALAM). These initiatives, guided by the Ministry of Finance, aim to promote environmental conservation and empower youth with eco-friendly activities. https://lnkd.in/g6in8KbH

ADFIAP participates in APRACA’s Regional Policy Forum on empowering SMEs in the agricultural sector Siem Reap, Cambodia – October 8, 2024: The Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP), represented by its Secretary General Mr. Enrique Florencio, and ADFIAP Institute and Membership Group Head Ms. Sandra Honrado, made a significant contribution to the Asia-Pacific Rural and Agricultural Credit Association (APRACA) Regional Policy Forum held in Siem Reap, Cambodia on October 8-9, 2024. The event, centered around the theme “Financing Agri-SMEs to Trigger Engines of Local Development,” brought together key stakeholders to discuss and explore strategies to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agriculture sector. ADFIAP, a regional organization of development financing institutions, played a pivotal role by sharing insights, best practices, and innovative solutions aimed at enhancing access to finance for Agri-SMEs. The organization emphasized the crucial role that Agri-SMEs play in driving economic growth, fostering sustainable development, and reducing poverty in rural communities across the Asia-Pacific region. ADFIAP highlighted the importance of tailored financial products and services designed to meet the unique needs of Agri-SMEs during the small group discussion and networking break. It also emphasized the significance of building strong partnerships between financial institutions, government agencies, and other stakeholders to create an enabling environment for Agri-SMEs to thrive. The APRACA Regional Policy Forum served as a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration among participants from diverse backgrounds, including policymakers, financial institutions, development organizations, and industry experts. Through engaging discussions, interactive sessions, and case studies, participants gained valuable insights into effective strategies for financing Agri-SMEs and unlocking their potential as engines of local development. In conclusion, the APRACA Regional Policy Forum in Siem Reap, Cambodia, provided a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to come together, exchange ideas, and chart a course toward a more vibrant and inclusive agricultural sector. ADFIAP’s active participation and contributions have enriched the discussions and laid the groundwork for collaborative efforts to finance Agri-SMEs and ignite the engines of local development in the Asia-Pacific region. https://lnkd.in/g_3Tj77S

ADFIAP engages in SAFIN Asia Regional Convening to boost agriculture finance in Asia Siem Reap, Cambodia – August 7, 2024: The Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP) actively participated in the Smallholder and Agri-SME Finance and Investment Network (SAFIN) Asia Regional Convening with the theme “Accelerating Access to Agriculture Finance in Asia.” The event took place in Siem Reap, Cambodia, coinciding with the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Rural and Agricultural Credit Association’s (APRACA) Regional Forum. ADFIAP, a key player in sustainable development finance, was represented by its Secretary General, Mr. Enrique Florencio, and Membership/ADFIAP Institute Group Head, Ms. Sandra Honrado. During the session, Mr. Florencio took the stage to share ADFIAP’s groundbreaking initiatives aimed at bolstering climate resiliency and promoting a green lending scheme and appropriate technology within the agriculture finance sector. Through these innovative programs, ADFIAP aims to address the pressing challenges farmers and agricultural SMEs face in the region, particularly in the wake of climate change and environmental degradation. Mr. Florencio emphasized the importance of creating sustainable financial mechanisms that support the growth of the agriculture sector and contribute to mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change. By integrating climate resiliency measures and green financing principles into their lending practices, ADFIAP seeks to foster a more environmentally sustainable and economically viable agriculture ecosystem across Asia. The SAFIN Asia Regional Convening provided a platform for ADFIAP to showcase its commitment to advancing sustainable development goals through inclusive finance and responsible lending practices. As the discussions at the event unfolded, it became evident that ADFIAP’s initiatives are poised to make a significant impact on transforming the agriculture finance sector in Asia, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future for all stakeholders involved. ADFIAP’s active participation in the SAFIN Asia Regional Convening reaffirms its leadership in promoting sustainable finance solutions for agriculture development in the region. By spearheading innovative initiatives and forging strategic partnerships, ADFIAP is poised to drive positive change and accelerate access to agriculture finance, ultimately contributing to the achievement of inclusive and sustainable growth in Asia and beyond. https://lnkd.in/g_eYi2gQ

ADFIAP and SYNAPSYS LTD collaborate on ADFIAPNET rollout Manila, Philippines: The Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP) and SYNAPSYS LTD., have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance the open finance digital infrastructure known as ADFIAPNET. This strategic collaboration aims to enhance financial services and promote sustainable economic development across the Asia-Pacific region. About ADFIAP ADFIAP is a regional organization representing 92 development banks and financial institutions across 41 countries. Their mission is to foster economic growth by providing innovative financial solutions. ADFIAPNET, a data-sharing financial ecosystem, was officially launched during the 47th Annual Meetings in Cambodia on May 16, 2024. About SYNAPSYS LTD. Synapsys Ltd., a fully-owned subsidiary of DFCC Bank PLC, with over 18 years of industry experience, Synapsys specializes in cutting-edge technology solutions for banks, capital markets, insurance, and retail payments. Their expertise combines deep business insights with software development excellence, serving both local and international clients. The ADFIAPNET Project ADFIAPNET is a data-sharing financial ecosystem designed exclusively for ADFIAP members. The platform allows members to engage in mutually beneficial data-sharing arrangements for transactional data within the ecosystem. Synapsys commits to sharing its technological expertise and contributing advanced technologies to ADFIAPNET. This collaboration targets integrating Synapsys across all ADFIAPNET initiatives and technology solutions, promoting innovation and efficiency among ADFIAP members. “We are excited about this collaboration,” said Mr. Enrique Florencio, Secretary General of ADFIAP. “ADFIAPNET will revolutionize financial services, enabling seamless data exchange among member DFIs.” Mr. Dinesh Fernandopulle, CEO and Managing Director of Synapsys Ltd., added, “Our partnership with ADFIAP aligns perfectly with our commitment to digital innovation and financial inclusion. Together, we will drive positive change in the development finance sector.” https://lnkd.in/gt62R8tP

Secretary General Enrique Florencio Highlights Collaborative Efforts in Climate Resilience Financing In a compelling closing address during the Stakeholders Consultation Meeting held at the Holiday Inn, Makati City, Secretary General Enrique Florencio expressed profound gratitude for the active participation of all attendees. The meeting, focused on the USAID project for Climate Resilience Financing Mechanisms (CRFM) in the Power Sector, underscored the collective commitment to sustainable energy development, climate resilience, and improved energy access in underserved areas. Mr. Florencio extended special appreciation to the financial sector partners present, acknowledging their unwavering support and commitment to sustainable finance practices. He emphasized that their expertise and resources are pivotal in driving positive change within communities. He also conveyed heartfelt thanks to the representatives from the regulatory body for their guidance and collaboration, ensuring that the initiatives align with regulatory standards and best practices. In his closing remarks, Florencio expressed deep gratitude to all stakeholders in the energy sector for their valuable insights and contributions. He highlighted that their expertise and feedback are instrumental in shaping the success of the shared goals. “Let’s continue working together towards a more sustainable and resilient future,” Mr. Florencio urged. “Your commitment and expertise are invaluable in shaping the success of this important initiative. Thank you, and let’s keep driving positive change together!”

Member News: India Exim Bank opens East Africa representative office in Nairobi to strengthen trade and investment ties India Exim Bank has opened its East Africa Representative Office in Nairobi, marking a strategic move to expand India’s business presence in the resource-rich and youthful continent. This office aims to enhance engagement with industries, private and public sector companies, banks, and financial institutions in the region, thereby boosting trade and investment between India, Kenya, and the broader East African region. Merchandise trade between India and East Africa has grown significantly over the past decade, increasing from USD 9.7 billion in 2013 to USD 12.9 billion in 2022. India’s exports to East Africa also saw a rise from USD 8.6 billion to USD 9.4 billion during the same period. This growth underscores the importance of the new office in Nairobi, which complements India Exim Bank’s existing offices in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, and Johannesburg, South Africa, and aligns with the Bank’s strategy to foster two-way trade and investment in Africa. India Exim Bank has been instrumental in promoting India’s international trade and investment, playing a crucial role in policy formulation and project export finance. It has extended over 200 Lines of Credit worth over USD 12 billion to 42 African countries, supporting socio-economic development by facilitating essential infrastructure, improving livelihoods, and boosting industrial output. This initiative benefits companies in both Africa and India across various sectors, particularly MSMEs, thus creating and sustaining jobs. https://lnkd.in/gUnWFJuW

ADFIAP and USAID ESP convene stakeholders to advance power sector development and resiliency July 17, 2024: A significant collaborative effort by the Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP) and USAID Energy Secure Philippines brought together 42 stakeholders from various sectors within the power industry at the Holiday Inn in Makati. The meeting featured break-out groups with representatives from regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and power utility companies. Their primary goal was to identify gaps in climate resilience financing in the power sector and propose initiatives to enhance the industry’s ability to withstand climate challenges. Mr. Fernando Martin Y. Roxas, President and CEO of the National Power Corporation (Napocor), highlighted strategic initiatives focused on renewable energy and sustainable, climate-resilient power solutions in the Philippines. Key discussions emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between regulatory agencies like ERC, NEA, and DOE, streamlining the evaluation process of the Electric Cooperatives Emergency and Resiliency Fund (ECERF), and adopting a holistic approach to improve community revenues. Exploring alternative funding sources such as crowdfunding and grants, along with technical innovations and assistance from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), was also highlighted. Financial institutions identified a lack of extensive knowledge on energy resiliency and the need for capacity building and specific programs for renewable energy and climate resilience training. In the power utilities sector, the importance of public awareness and engagement through the Resiliency Compliance Plan (RCP), regular training, and addressing delays in approvals and supply chain vulnerabilities were stressed. The need for government guarantee support was also underscored. Representatives from the energy regulatory sector included the Department of Energy Philippines, National Power Corporation (Napocor), Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Philippines, and National Electrification Administration. Financial sector attendees included Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Development Bank of the Philippines, LandBank of the Philippines, Philippine National Bank, and Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI). The power utility sector was represented by DMCI Power Corporation and SUNWEST GROUP HOLDING COMPANY, INC. This collaborative endeavor marks a crucial step toward securing a more resilient and sustainable energy future for the Philippines. https://lnkd.in/ghi26pXf #ClimateResilience #SustainableEnergy #Collaboration #RenewableEnergy #Philippines #ADFIAP #USAID #EnergySecurePhilippines

Step into the world of high-stakes banking and leadership insights with our exclusive CEO Spotlight feature. Meet H.E. Kao Thach, PhD., DBA., a visionary leader who has been at the helm of the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB Bank ) since 2014. With over two decades of experience in the financial sector, Dr. Thach shares his journey, insights, and the remarkable impact of his work on Cambodia’s agricultural and rural development. Discover how his dedication to poverty alleviation, economic growth, and sustainable development has earned him the prestigious title of 2024 Distinguished Person of the Year at the ADFIAP Awards. Join us as we delve into the inspiring story of a leader committed to making a meaningful difference. Read it here in the May 2024 issue of DevTalks Magazine: https://lnkd.in/gHV2i2qT

Discover the Inspiring Journey of a Visionary Banker! Dive into the world of Mr. Rajan Uttamchandani, the CEO and Founder of Esquire Financing, Inc., as he shares his remarkable story of empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines and has earned him the 2024 CEO of the Year at the ADFIAP Awards. This article in ADFIAP DevTalks Magazine highlights his dedication to fostering growth and innovation, making it a must-read for anyone passionate about leadership, entrepreneurship, and the transformative power of supportive financing. Get ready to be inspired by his mission to unlock potential and drive economic progress! Read it here in the latest issue of DevTalks Magazine: https://lnkd.in/gdhN8pDi