Financial Policies for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam Nowadays

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been continuously growing in both quantity and quality, contributing 48% to the national GDP and generating 50% of total employment in the economy. However, alongside their achievements, SMEs still face certain limitations such as outdated technology, weak business management models, low labor productivity, and lack of transparency in information. These drawbacks somewhat hinder SMEs' access to financial sources in the financial market, such as issuing stocks, seeking capital from strategic partners, and attracting investments from investment funds. According to statistics, the banking credit channel remains the primary source of capital, especially medium and long-term capital, meeting the investment needs for expanding business operations of SMEs. On the one hand, this could impede the sustainable development of SMEs, and on the other hand, it also poses liquidity pressures on the banking system. In recent years, urbanization and socio-economic development nationwide have achieved significant accomplishments in economic development, balanced social development, stability, and environmental protection. Among these, promoting SMEs' innovation and creativity is the driving force contributing to the economic growth and national budget revenues. The State has implemented various policies to support and promote SME development. Resolution XII of the Party Congress also emphasized the encouragement of entrepreneurship and the development of Vietnamese enterprises to become the backbone force, leading in the industrialization and modernization process. However, the implementation of support policies, including financial policies, still faces many challenges. SMEs find it difficult to access credit sources. This article will assess the current situation of implementing financial policies and propose solutions to build a favorable startup ecosystem for SMEs to contribute to enhancing the competitiveness and economic growth of the country.