LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced that a new Rs300 billion interest-free business loan programme will be launched in October 2026 to expand access to financing for entrepreneurs and small businesses across the province.
The announcement was made by Punjab Minister for Industries and Commerce Chaudhry Shafay Hussain during a meeting of the Project Steering Committee, which reviewed the progress of the second phase of the Chief Minister’s Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme.
New programme to be inaugurated by Chief Minister
Chaudhry Shafay Hussain said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will formally inaugurate the new economic initiative, which is aimed at supporting business growth, entrepreneurship, and employment through interest-free financing.
He described the programme as one of the province’s largest financial support initiatives for the business community.
Rs70 billion already disbursed
According to the minister, the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme and Asaan Karobar Card Scheme have so far provided Rs70 billion in interest-free loans, benefiting 108,371 small and large businesses across Punjab.
He said the schemes have contributed to increased commercial and economic activity throughout the province.
Second phase progressing
During the meeting, Punjab Small Industries Corporation (PSIC) Managing Director Mubeen Elahi briefed participants on the implementation and progress of the programme’s second phase.
The minister said the second phase involves the distribution of Rs90 billion in interest-free loans through targeted financing programmes for Central Punjab, North Punjab, South Punjab, and export-oriented businesses.
He added that 4,462 beneficiaries have so far received Rs53.7 billion in interest-free financing under the second phase.
Government aims to boost entrepreneurship
Punjab officials said the expanded financing programme is intended to improve access to capital for businesses, encourage entrepreneurship, and strengthen economic activity across the province.
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