27.12.2004

Finnvera’s internationalisation financing to encompass more host countries

So far only the EEA countries and Russia have been eligible as potential host countries for Finnvera’s internationalisation financing. As of the beginning of 2005, the group of host countries will increase to include all countries in Finnvera’s country classification 0–4.

A Finnish SME can be granted Finnvera’s internationalisation loan or guarantee for financing the enterprise’s operations abroad. As of 1 January 2005, all countries in Finnvera’s country classification 0–4 are eligible as host countries for internationalisation financing. One of the most important new host countries is China. Previously, internationalisation financing could only be used for projects to be carried out in the EEA countries or in Russia.

A Finnish SME can use Finnvera’s internationalisation loan or guarantee to help finance the investments, development or growth of the enterprise’s subsidiary or affiliated company, or the enterprise’s own office, that exists or is to be founded in the host country. The operations abroad shall promote the enterprise’s business in Finland. Internationalisation financing cannot be used directly to finance exports; in other words, the intended use cannot be merely to establish a sales office.

The subsidiary or affiliated company in the host country must primarily engage in manufacture, assembly, maintenance or service.

For further information:
Anneli Toivonen, Development Manager, tel. +358 20 460 7364
Regional Offices, telephone exchange +358 20 460 11

Finnvera's country classification