The small and Medium Enterprises (SME) interest subsidy scheme, launched in April, has provided up to MOP2.5 billion in support by September, according to Portuguese newspaper Ponto Final.
In the first six months, the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) received 1,250 applications, approving 1,057, while only two were rejected, the report said.
Retail businesses were the largest beneficiaries, with 271 applications approved and MOP 597.5 million in subsidies granted. The construction and public works sector followed, receiving MOP550 million for 197 approved applications.
Other sectors also benefited: business services received MOP287 million for 120 applications; wholesale trade obtained MOP278.8 million for 97 applications; and hotels and restaurants secured MOP274.5 million across 138 applications.
The plan aims to “increase liquidity” and “ease financial pressure” for SMEs, offering interest subsidies of up to MOP5 million per enterprise for a maximum period of three years, with an annual interest subsidy rate capped at 4%.
Source: https://macaudailytimes.com.mo/govt-grants-mop2-5-billion-in-sme-loan-interest-subsidies.html

