Aspiring entrepreneurs in Punjab have received encouraging news as progress under the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme continues to accelerate during its second phase.
The third meeting of the Project Steering Committee, chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, was held at PESC House, where officials reviewed the implementation of Phase Two and approved measures to further speed up loan disbursement.
During the meeting, the Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce stated that extensive awareness campaigns would be launched to inform business owners and chambers of commerce about the scheme. Officials informed the committee that loans worth Rs. 22 billion have been approved so far in Phase Two, while Rs. 16 billion in interest-free loans have already been distributed.
Thanks to the chief minister’s efforts, the scheme has provided Rs. 70 billion in interest-free financing within six months, benefiting 108,371 businesses across Punjab.
Under Phase Two, interest-free loans ranging from Rs. 30 million to Rs. 50 million are being offered. The financing is aimed at supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), small traders, home-based industries, vendors, and exporters.
Provincial Minister Chaudhry Shafay Hussain said traders have shown full confidence in the scheme and confirmed that a public awareness drive will be launched to highlight its benefits and expand outreach.
The provincial government says the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme is playing a key role in boosting entrepreneurship, strengthening SMEs, and driving economic growth across Punjab.
