HKMA Guideline on the Green and Sustainable Finance Grant Scheme

On 4 May 2021, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (“HKMA”) published its guideline on the Green and Sustainable Finance Grant Scheme (“GSF Grant Scheme”). The government recognised in its 2021-22 Budget the increasing importance of green and sustainable development and investment, particularly in light of the goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and the need for robust green and sustainable financial services to support this. The GSF Grant Scheme will consolidate and replace the Pilot Bond Grant Scheme and Green Bond Grant Scheme and provide subsidy for eligible bond issuers and loan borrowers to cover their Hong Kong-based expenses on green and sustainable bond and loan financing. 

The GSF Grant Scheme will commence on 10 May 2021 and last for three years. The GSF Scheme extends to both eligible green and sustainable bonds and loans. 

This alert sets out the key details of the GSF Grant Scheme, with a focus on the bond aspects.