ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called on the State Bank of Pakistan to take concrete measures to simplify procedures for commercial banks in providing loans to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as the agricultural sector.
He emphasized that access to credit should be prioritized for service providers who are actively promoting innovation and modernization within the agricultural industry, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering growth and technological advancement in key economic sectors.
During a high-level meeting on loans for the SME and agriculture sectors, the Prime Minister instructed Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar, in coordination with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) team, to conduct visits to all provinces, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir, to develop a comprehensive and inclusive policy framework aimed at facilitating SMEs across the country.
He further stressed the importance of equipping young entrepreneurs with necessary training and guidance to establish new businesses, thereby enhancing economic activity, generating employment opportunities, and supporting sustainable development nationwide.
