The pharmaceutical industry is unique because of a close connection between knowledge and final product. As the quintessential science-based industry, pharmaceuticals depend heavily on high level manpower and substantial R&D for innovation. Because these requirements are costly, the industry is...

This paper reports on the microfinance program of Hatton National Bank Limited (HNB), the largest private commercial bank in Sri Lanka. It reviews the experience of HNB, which has initiated a program offering financial services to the poor while continuing its traditional business operations.