Sri Lanka, June 30 -- The Ministry of Finance has launched a Rs. 6.5 billion concessionary loan scheme for SME paddy millers and cooperative societies to purchase paddy during the 2025 Yala season, from July 1 to November 15.

According to the Ministry, the scheme offers loans up to Rs. 50 million at a 7% annual interest rate, repayable within 180 days. It is aimed at entities with a maximum daily milling capacity of 25MT, holding valid business registrations and Paddy Marketing Board licenses.

Fourteen banks will participate in the program:

Bank of Ceylon, People's Bank, Regional Development Bank, Hatton National Bank, Seylan Bank, Sampath Bank, Commercial Bank, DFCC Bank, National Development Bank, Nations Trust Bank, Sanasa Developme...