SBA has released Policy Notice 5000‑877629, 7(a) International Trade Loan Program Updates (dated April 2, effective May 1, 2026). This notice provides guidance for implementing the recently announced expansion of ITL eligibility. As NAGGL previously reported based on Press Releases issued by the Agency, beginning May 1, businesses operating in SBA‑designated NAICS codes – including a broad range of food supply chain businesses operating in a variety of NAICS codes and manufacturers operating in NAICS sectors 31–33 – will qualify for ITL loans with the enhanced 90% SBA guaranty.
The notice revises several provisions in SOP 50 10 8, Section B, Chapter 4 (International Trade Loans). The updated SOP language includes a list of NAICS codes that SBA has determined “meet the threshold criteria [set out in the Small Business Act] of being “adversely affected and injured by international trade and increased import competition.” Businesses in the designated industries will not need to provide additional documentation demonstrating such impact. However, lenders must document in their credit memo how the loan will positively impact the business – typically by providing a summary of the transaction and the reason for the loan request.
The notice also addresses other ITL requirements, including permitted uses of loan proceeds and the specific circumstances under which proceeds may be used to finance changes of ownership. Finally, the notice indicates that lenders will be required to take a first lien on assets financed with ITL proceeds or on other applicant assets, unless SBA grants a loan-specific exception to policy to allow a second lien position.
The changes will apply to loans that receive an SBA loan number on or after May 1, 2026.
Please review the full notice for complete details on the SOP revisions. These new requirements will be discussed during the upcoming NAGGL Spring Conference, April 27-29, 2026, in Orlando, FL. And NAGGL will provide information soon regarding its upcoming training on the new ITL eligibility and other requirements.
