Financial Inclusion Opens New Economic Opportunities in Pakistan

Pakistan is seeing new economic opportunities as financial inclusion expands across different sectors. Better access to finance is helping increase investment, business activity and long-term economic growth.

According to Finance Minister’s Adviser Khurram Shehzad, financial facilities for housing, agriculture, small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), electric vehicles (EVs) and exports are supporting economic activity.

He said a more inclusive financial system is helping direct capital towards productive sectors, exports and modern technology. Under the Apna Ghar Programme, applications have increased by 84%, while approved financing has reached around Rs280 billion.

Improved access to agricultural finance is also supporting farmers, small growers and the rural economy. Around 330,000 SMEs now have access to formal financing worth Rs1.05 trillion, creating more opportunities for business expansion.

New credit scoring models are also making it easier for businesses to access financing without relying heavily on traditional collateral requirements.

Khurram Shehzad said green finance initiatives have led to higher lending and increased vehicle deliveries in the EV sector.

He added that linking financial inclusion with production, exports and investment can help improve business competitiveness and support sustainable economic growth in Pakistan.