Natia Turnava Highlights Georgia’s Microfinance Reforms at MFC’s 27th Annual Conference
National Bank of Georgia President Natia Turnava participated in the 27th Annual International Conference organized by the Microfinance Center (MFC), with the support of the National Bank of Georgia.
The event opened with a welcoming speech from Turnava, who thanked the MFC for selecting Georgia as the host country for this major international event.
She emphasized that Georgia’s microfinance sector has played a crucial role in the country’s economic and social stability for more than two decades—progress driven by the National Bank’s consistent regulatory reforms. These include the introduction of capital, liquidity, and risk management standards, enhanced loan transparency requirements, and measures to prevent over-indebtedness. Together, these reforms have contributed to building a flexible and responsible financial model in Georgia.
“Today, Georgia’s microfinance sector is diverse, well-regulated, and technologically advanced,” Turnava stated. “The sector operates nearly 400 service points nationwide, serves over 400,000 active borrowers, and manages assets worth nearly 2 billion GEL. It is a key provider of financial services, especially in regions where banking infrastructure remains limited. In Georgia, microfinance institutions are not merely lenders—they are partners in fostering an inclusive economy and advancing financial education. Their adaptability, localized services, and strong social responsibility ensure the sustainability of their operations.”
She also noted that in today’s complex global environment—marked by geopolitical risks, climate challenges, and digital transformation—the microfinance sector not only has the potential to remain resilient but also to support inclusive economic growth.
The 27th Annual MFC Conference, themed "Changes, Shocks and Solutions: Microfinance in the Shadow of Geopolitics", is the largest inclusive finance event in Europe and Central Asia. It brings together over 400 delegates from approximately 40 countries, including financial institutions, investment funds, regulatory bodies, policymakers, and social finance innovators.
The conference focuses on expanding access to inclusive finance in the face of geopolitical and climate-related challenges. Special attention is being given to micro and family businesses, as well as vulnerable groups such as women, youth, migrants, and rural communities. This year’s event also coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Georgian lari (GEL), and includes joint activities with the National Bank aimed at strengthening international dialogue and cooperation.
The MFC Microfinance Center is a network of 140 member organizations across 36 countries in Europe and Central Asia. It serves more than 2 million low-income clients and advocates for responsible, inclusive, and sustainable finance through initiatives in digital transformation, ESG, and green finance.
