SBP Deputy Governor stresses tech-led push for financial inclusion

August 08, 2026 (MLN): Financial literacy remains the biggest barrier to expanding financial inclusion in Pakistan.

State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Deputy Governor Saleem Ullah made these remarks, while addressing the Future of Finance Summit 2026 organized by the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA Pakistan) at the Pearl Continental Hotel, Karachi.

The summit, was attended by policymakers, financial experts, corporate and business leaders, investors, professionals and financial-sector stakeholders.

He said limited use of financial services and digital gadgets remains a major challenge, alongside continued heavy reliance on cash, both of which slow the pace of financial inclusion.

Saleem Ullah said technology should be leveraged to carry the message of financial services to remote and underserved areas, noting that the platforms and payment rails needed to do so are already available.

He said efforts must be directed towards improving people's quality of life through wider access to financial services.

The summit also featured key remarks by Advisor to the Finance Minister Khurram Schehzad on sustainability, as he addressed the role of sustainable practices in Pakistan's broader economic transition alongside his remarks on private sector-led growth.

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