Independent Hong Kong business funding researchUpdated 17 July 2026
HKBusiness Funding
Government-backed finance

SME Financing Guarantee Scheme: 80% guide

The active 80% product shares lender risk with HKMC Insurance Limited. The 90% product stopped taking new applications after March 2026.

Research statusVerified 17 July 2026

Primary sources checked. Product pricing remains subject to lender assessment.

How we verify →
Estimated result
Guaranteed portionHK$800,000
Assumed annual feeHK$16,000
Simple fee over termHK$80,000

Use HKMCI's official calculator for the actual fee.

01

Core parameters

The facility ceiling is HK$18m and guarantee periods can reach 10 years. The application period was extended to the end of March 2028.

02

What it does not do

The guarantee does not promise approval, cap the lender margin, remove fees or automatically remove personal guarantees.

03

Programme evidence

As at 3 July 2026, the 80% product had approved 30,474 applications excluding withdrawals, representing HK$129.7bn in facilities. These cumulative figures are not an applicant approval probability.

04

The bank still underwrites the borrower

HKMC Insurance shares an approved lender's credit risk under the scheme. The participating bank still tests business viability, purpose, conduct, repayment capacity, ownership and the supporting documents. The borrower applies through a lender, not directly to HKMCI for cash.

Ask the bank which facility type it proposes. A term loan creates fixed principal reduction, while a revolving line may better match repeated stock or trade cycles. The same HK$18 million programme ceiling can sit behind materially different contracts and cash demands.

05

Guarantee fees and owner liability remain live issues

The guarantee fee depends on the facility and guarantee period, with current bank promotions sometimes rebating part of that charge. Treat any rebate as a dated promotion. Compare the contractual cost after the promotion and confirm whether the lender requires personal guarantees from directors or shareholders.

A government guarantee does not release an owner from a signed personal guarantee. Read continuing-guarantee language, set-off rights, events of default and the procedure for release after settlement. Obtain legal advice where the exposure is material or the wording is unclear.

Decision note

Rates, limits and eligibility can change. Ask for a current written quote, repayment schedule and agreement. General information only.