The Bank's aim for the future is to increase its lending activity to both the productive and social sectors of the economy. The Bank is guided by its strategic plan and Government's policy. As such we will seek to enhance productivity in Dominica's traditional sectors, to diversify and expand the agricultural base, and to provide infrastructural and institutional support for private investment in manufacturing and tourism. Special emphasis will be placed on projects which have an export orientation.

In the Agricultural sector efforts will be concentrated in advancing Government's diversification programme. The Bank also plans to assist in introducing new technology in this sector in order to improve its efficiency.

With the ever increasing emphasis on Eco-tourism, Dominica stands to benefit substantially from promotion of this sector. The Bank is geared to assist in providing funds for the building of hotels and other accommodations. There will also be funding of watersports, small craft shops and other tourism ancillary services. The Bank's effort is apparent in its tourism loan approvals for the past few years. At the same time we are aware that tourism is a relatively new sector in the economy. The Bank's experience so far suggests that we must proceed carefully in lending to this sector.

In order to meet Government's objective to adequately house all citizens the Bank will continue to finance housing loans as funds become available. Human Resource development is recognized as the key to achieving international competitiveness and growth of export industries. The bank will also continue to access funds for student loans to pursue studies at the tertiary and technical levels.