Context:
Sri Lanka’s DFCC Bank PLC has become the first foreign corporate issuer to list green bonds on the NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) at GIFT City, India’s International Financial Services Centre (IFSC). This marks a significant step in promoting cross-border sustainable finance in South Asia.
Key Highlights:
- Issuer: DFCC Bank PLC, Sri Lanka’s oldest development bank
- Bond Size: LKR 2.5 billion (~USD 8 million)
- Green Bond Listing Date: June 10, 2025
- Location: NSE International Exchange, GIFT City, Gujarat
- Inauguration Ceremony: Attended by IFSCA Chairperson K. Rajaraman and DFCC Bank officials
- Green Use of Proceeds: Funding solar energy projects (ground-mounted and rooftop PV systems) in Sri Lanka
- Compliance Framework: Aligned with ICMA’s Green Bond Principles and Sri Lanka’s Green Finance Taxonomy
Strategic Significance:
- Pioneering Status: First green bond from a foreign corporate at GIFT IFSC
- Dual Listing: Also listed on Luxembourg Stock Exchange (LuxSE)
- Environmental Focus: Contributes to Sri Lanka’s target of 70% renewable energy by 2030
- SDG Contribution: Supports SDG 7 (Affordable & Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action)
- Regional Integration: Encourages more cross-border ESG-aligned issuances from BIMSTEC and South Asian countries
