Description |
Mekong Enterprise Fund (the Fund) was launched in April 2002. It was established for the purpose of investing in private sector small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Viet Nam, Cambodia and Laos. It was the first investment Fund in the target countries that specifically invests in and supports the development of private sector SMEs. The Fund has adopted a comprehensive investment strategy in identifying priority sectors and SMEs. |
Objectives and Scope |
The objectives of the Fund are to (i) achieve a positive development impact on commercially viable private sector SME's in the target countries by providing equity capital, business support and advisory services, and (ii) achieve long-term capital appreciation. The Fund has a diversified portfolio of investments that contribute either directly or indirectly to achieving its commercial and developmental objectives. |
Status of Development Objectives |
The Fund (i) popularizes best practice management among Vietnamese companies; (ii) continues to contribute to capital market development through its investee companies; (iii) continues to maintain and update the Private Sector Obstacle Status Report which has been well received by various members of the development assistance community. These reports have helped raise awareness of key problems facing private sector companies in Vietnam. |
Linkage to Country/Regional Strategy |
ADB's private sector development strategy recognizes the importance of SME development as a major generator of employment and income. To assist this market, the development strategy calls for working through SME investment funds, specialized financial institutions, and cooperating with existing regional organizations to stimulate private sector investment. |