Inclusive Financial Inclusion Opens New Pathways for Investment and Economic Growth

Islamabad (Web Desk) — Finance Minister’s Adviser Khurram Shehzad has said that promoting comprehensive financial inclusion in Pakistan is creating new opportunities for investment, commercial activity and sustainable economic growth. The government is using the financial system to redirect capital from unproductive sectors toward agriculture, exports, small businesses and modern technology.

Historic Financing for Housing, Agriculture and SMEs

The Finance Minister’s Adviser said that modern credit-scoring models have been introduced as an alternative to conventional collateral-based lending, making access to financing easier for individuals and businesses.

Key Sectors and Figures

Housing finance — Apna Ghar Programme: Applications under the scheme have increased by 84 percent, while approved financing has reached approximately Rs280 billion.

SME sector: Around 330,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country have received formal financing worth Rs1.05 trillion, enabling business expansion.

Agricultural sector recovery: Easier access to credit for farmers and small-scale growers is providing stronger foundations for the rural economy.

Green finance and EV sector: Financing for electric vehicles (EVs) and vehicle deliveries has also recorded significant progress as part of efforts to support environmental sustainability.

Linking Financial Inclusion with Exports and Production

According to Khurram Shehzad, financial facilities are increasingly being linked directly with domestic production, exports and competitiveness. The objective is to reduce the economy’s dependence on external borrowing and move Pakistan toward greater self-reliance and sustainable economic stability.