DFCC Bank Strengthens Commitment to Rural Economic Empowerment Through Tea Sector Engagement

DFCC Bank is reaffirming its commitment to rural economic empowerment by driving financial awareness within Sri Lanka’s tea value chain. As part of its broader national strategy to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Bank recently conducted a focused awareness session for 28 line managers from the Wikiliya Tea Factory in Balangoda - field-level leaders who serve as vital links between tea factories and smallholder tea suppliers.

The session highlighted DFCC Bank’s value chain financing solutions, including customised loan products, eligibility guidance, and financial tools tailored to the operational needs of small-scale growers. By equipping line managers with this knowledge, DFCC Bank aims to foster more inclusive access to finance at the grassroots level of one of Sri Lanka’s most essential export industries.

Organised in partnership with the finance teams of Wikiliya and New Hopewell Tea Factories, the programme was led by the Bank’s Cluster Leader for MSME – Sabaragamuwa Cluster, and MSME Officer at the Balangoda Branch.

“At DFCC Bank, our goal is to empower every layer of the value chain - not just through credit, but by building capability and trust,” said Aasiri Iddamalgoda, Senior Vice President – Head of Retail and Business Banking at DFCC Bank. “Line managers are uniquely placed to influence real change on the ground, and this initiative helps them deliver timely, informed financial support to the communities they serve.”

This initiative is part of DFCC Bank’s continued drive to support SMEs and MSMEs through targeted outreach, rural engagement, and sector-specific financial solutions. With over 70 years of experience in development banking, DFCC Bank remains at the forefront of delivering inclusive, purpose-driven financial services that contribute to national growth and resilience.