UOB Thailand has been named Best Sustainable Bank (International) 2026 at the FinanceAsia Awards 2026, with the Bank recognised for integrating sustainable finance into its mainstream lending and helping businesses manage the transition towards more sustainable growth.
In 2025, UOB Thailand extended THB74.6 billion in sustainable financing, while 48.6 per cent of newly approved corporate loans were classified as green or sustainability-linked financing. This reflects how sustainability considerations are increasingly becoming part of mainstream business and financing decisions.
In addition to UOB Thailand's sustainable finance solutions, FinanceAsia recognised the Bank for its climate-risk integration, support for small and medium-sized enterprises and green investment offerings. The award was based on the Bank's performance in 2025.
Mr Richard Maloney, President and CEO, UOB Thailand, said "For many businesses, sustainability has moved from an aspiration to a practical commercial issue. It increasingly affects access to capital, operating costs, supply chains and long-term competitiveness. Our role is to help customers manage that transition in a commercially workable way, through appropriate financing, sector expertise and access to the right partners. This recognition reflects the progress our customers are making and reinforces our commitment to supporting Thailand's long-term resilience."
Financing the business transition
UOB Thailand helps businesses incorporate sustainability into their growth strategies through sustainable finance frameworks and sector-specific solutions. These support investments in areas including renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure and decarbonisation initiatives.
In 2025, the Bank supported several significant transactions including financing Levanta Renewables' acquisition of 34 solar projects across Thailand with a combined capacity of 230 megawatts and the development of a 25.6-megawatt sustainable data centre in Samut Prakan by GSA Data Center.
UOB has also strengthened the way sustainability and climate considerations are incorporated into financing decisions. This includes a Responsible Financing Checklist, supported by sustainable finance frameworks aligned with the Singapore-Asia Taxonomy.
Helping SMEs build practical capabilities
Recognising the importance of SMEs to Thailand's economy, UOB Thailand combines financing with practical support to help smaller businesses strengthen their competitiveness and prepare for new growth opportunities.
Its initiatives include the Sustainability Innovation Programme, UOB Sustainability Compass, Womenpreneur and AI Ready Programme. To date, more than 600 SMEs have benefited from the Sustainability Innovation Programme, while more than 1,800 SMEs have used the UOB Sustainability Compass to advance their sustainability efforts.
Making sustainable choices more accessible
UOB Thailand also offers sustainable financing and investment solutions that enable individuals to participate in the sustainability transition.
In 2025, customer investments in ESG-focused investment products exceeded THB 2.4 billion, more than double the previous year. The Bank also provides financing solutions that support energy-efficient living, including solar roofs, EV chargers and energy-efficiency home improvements.
FinanceAsia said: "UOB demonstrated an impressive commitment to sustainable finance in Thailand during 2025 by significantly exceeding its annual targets, with new sustainable finance approvals reaching 48.6 per cent. UOB also supported SMEs through sustainability, women entrepreneurship and AI-readiness programmes, while expanding sustainable investment and green lending solutions."