Govt pledges greater support for women entrepreneurs

July 03, 2026 (MLN): The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening women entrepreneurship by expanding financial inclusion, improving access to finance, and creating a more enabling environment for women-owned businesses as part of its broader strategy for inclusive economic growth.

The commitment came during a meeting between Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb and a delegation of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Peshawar, according to the press release.

The discussion focused on measures to enhance women's participation in the economy through better access to formal finance, banking services, market linkages, logistics, certification, and business development support.

Participants also exchanged proposals aimed at strengthening the policy framework for women-owned enterprises and increasing their presence in the formal economy.

Representatives of the Chamber highlighted their ongoing efforts to promote women entrepreneurship in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through advocacy, startup incubation, capacity building, and skills development.

They also outlined initiatives supporting women-led businesses across sectors including handicrafts, textiles, food processing, gems and jewellery, agriculture, information technology, and beauty products.

The delegation was led by President Ms. Quratulain and included Senior Vice President Ms. Zaara Imtiaz and Secretary General Ms. Saba Hidayat.

During the meeting, Aurangzeb stressed that increasing women's participation in the workforce, improving access to education, expanding digital and financial literacy, and equipping women with market-oriented skills are critical to achieving sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

He said these objectives require long-term collaboration between the public and private sectors.

Highlighting the government's digital financial inclusion agenda, the finance minister said social protection payments are increasingly being routed through digital wallets, allowing women greater financial independence and easier access to formal financial services.

He added that digital literacy and modern financial solutions will remain key drivers of women's economic empowerment.

Aurangzeb also encouraged the Chamber to promote upskilling and reskilling of young women in information technology, software development, freelancing, and digital services, enabling them to compete in international markets and contribute to Pakistan's export earnings.

He reiterated that while the government will continue to facilitate entrepreneurship through an enabling policy framework, the private sector must remain the primary driver of investment, innovation, and job creation.

The Chamber thanked the finance minister for the constructive engagement and appreciated the government's continued support for women entrepreneurs.

Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination on practical measures to strengthen women's economic participation, improve financial inclusion, and promote inclusive private sector-led growth.

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