Govt to expedite easy loans for SMEs

January 06, 2026 (MLN):  The government has directed relevant institutions to accelerate initiatives for providing easy-term loans to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through banks and other financial institutions while highlighting the sector’s importance for economic growth.

Chairing a meeting in Islamabad to review the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority’s business plan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that SMEs are the backbone of the national economy and possess significant potential to enhance the country’s exports through focused development.

The meeting reviewed a three-year roadmap aimed at promoting SMEs nationwide, outlining practical steps to strengthen the sector and improve access to finance, as reported by Radio Pakistan.

Participants discussed key challenges faced by SMEs and proposed solutions to address structural and operational bottlenecks.

The meeting was also briefed  on measures included in the business plan, strategies to integrate SMEs into national export supply chains, and efforts to expand international cooperation to introduce Pakistan’s SME sector to global markets on a competitive footing.

It was shared that multiple workshops have recently been organized in six cities to build the capacity of local SMEs, while various training programs are underway to prepare them for global competition.

The meeting was further updated on initiatives designed to ensure greater participation and a meaningful role for women in the SME sector.

The session was attended by federal and provincial representatives, senior economic managers, members of the newly appointed SMEDA Board, and officials from relevant departments.

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