Updated Terms for the 'Affordable Loans 5-7-9%' Scheme
The 5-7-9% program is one of the main tools of the 'Made in Ukraine' policy, and it is now being adjusted specifically for agricultural borrowers. Ukraine's government has lifted the previous 20% cap on using these loans for working capital, while also lowering the annual interest rate on farm working-capital loans from 15% to 10%. The goal is to make financing more accessible to agricultural businesses.
In addition, a recovery loan may not exceed the borrower's confirmed damages and is capped at UAH 150 million. Starting on 7 August 2026, all program participants will be required to meet the World Bank's environmental and social standards. However, this requirement will be suspended during martial law and for 180 days after it ends for certain types of lending, including loans used to repair damaged property or fund energy resilience projects.
Helping Farmers Weather a Difficult Period
The redesigned scheme is meant to support agricultural producers through a severe economic period shaped by the war. Lower interest rates and fewer borrowing restrictions are expected to strengthen the financial position of the agricultural sector, which plays a vital role in maintaining the country's food supply.
At the same time, the move to adopt environmental and social safeguards from 2026 reflects Ukraine's commitment to sustainable development, while taking today's challenges into account.
The recent adjustments to the lending landscape in Ukraine's high-risk areas highlight the government’s focus on bolstering financial support for businesses amid challenging conditions. As agricultural producers benefit from reduced interest rates and revised terms, similar trends in business lending indicate a broader strategy to empower various sectors during this tumultuous period.