Access to Finance Plan Gains Pace as Government Boosts Affordable Credit

The federal government has accelerated the Access to Finance Plan for 2026-28 to expand affordable financing across key sectors. The initiative aims to improve access to credit for small businesses, agriculture, information technology, exporters, renewable energy, and housing. In addition, the government plans to strengthen oversight and speed up implementation through a new governance system.

Steering committee to oversee financing reforms

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the first meeting of the newly formed Access to Finance Steering Committee. The committee will supervise the national financing plan, coordinate reforms, and monitor progress across key institutions.
During the meeting, members reviewed the proposed governance framework, implementation strategy, and performance targets. They discussed measures to expand financial inclusion, increase affordable credit, and improve financing opportunities for priority sectors. The committee also examined progress on flagship programmes, including Zarkhez-e (Asaan Zarai Qarza), the Apna Ghar Scheme, and the Pakistan Accelerated Vehicle Electrification (PAVE) initiative.
Officials reviewed application trends, approvals, loan disbursements, and operational challenges. They also proposed a three-tier governance structure to improve accountability. Under the proposal, the prime minister will receive monthly progress reports, the Steering Committee will hold strategic reviews every two weeks, and sector-specific subcommittees will meet every week. Furthermore, members discussed a performance dashboard, Resolution Target Dates (RTDs), and escalation mechanisms to ensure timely implementation.

Government targets faster credit access

Aurangzeb said the Steering Committee would become the central platform for strategic oversight, policy coordination, and performance monitoring. He added that stronger coordination among regulators, banks, and implementing agencies would help remove bottlenecks and improve decision-making.
The committee also reviewed reforms designed to expand SME financing. These reforms include better credit scoring, an Open Banking Framework, an SME Digital Portal, stronger integration with credit bureaus, and improved financing across important value chains.
The finance minister stressed that disciplined execution, clear accountability, and regular monitoring would determine the success of the Access to Finance Plan. The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Finance Division, State Bank of Pakistan, Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, Pakistan Banks’ Association, Karandaaz Pakistan, and other key institutions.