Haroon Akhtar Khan urges banks and the State Bank of Pakistan to simplify lending procedures and improve access to affordable credit for small businesses.
ISLAMABAD, October 22, 2026: Adviser to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan has called for improved access to affordable financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), reiterating the government’s commitment to doubling SME financing.
During a consultative session with SME representatives, business clusters, banks, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and government departments, participants highlighted difficulties in obtaining credit, meeting working capital requirements and securing funds to expand operations.
Haroon Akhtar Khan stressed that banks and the SBP must address these challenges through effective follow-up, accountability and closer coordination with businesses.
He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had directed that financing for SMEs be doubled, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting small businesses and strengthening their contribution to the national economy.
The Adviser urged financial institutions to simplify lending procedures and ensure eligible enterprises could access suitable financing facilities. He emphasised that financial support must reach businesses at the grassroots level and deliver tangible improvements in production, investment and employment.
Highlighting the importance of SMEs to Pakistan’s gross domestic product, exports and non-agricultural employment, he said limited access to finance remained a major obstacle to business growth.
Improved financing would enable enterprises to upgrade machinery, purchase raw materials, fulfil larger orders, create jobs and expand exports, he added.
The Ministry of Industries and Production will continue engaging with banks, government departments and business clusters to identify practical solutions and improve access to financial resources.
The Adviser stressed that the government’s priority was to achieve measurable outcomes and ensure financing facilities addressed the actual needs of businesses.