Credit Guarantee Feasibility Study – Lao People’s Democratic Republic

The assignment assessed the readiness of financial institutions and SME stakeholders in Lao PDR for a new SME financing programme, with BAZ Consultants supporting the engagement and Dr Bilal Ahmad contributing to the broader advisory effort. The work included consultations with the Bank of the Lao PDR, public and private commercial banks, and key SME associations to assess supply-side and demand-side dynamics. It also covered the preparation of a feasibility study and a ten-year business plan to establish a self-sustaining credit guarantee entity, with the resulting framework outlining a practical roadmap to strengthen SME access to finance and support the long-term viability of the proposed institution.