LAHORE – Sigh of relief for thousands of entrepreneurs struggling to secure affordable financing as Punjab government announced largest business support initiatives in recent years, announcing Rs300 billion financing programme that promises interest-free loans of up to Rs10 crore for businesses, alongside low-markup funding for larger industrial ventures.
Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce Chaudhry Shafay Hussain announced launch of a Rs300 billion business financing programme in collaboration with the Bank of Punjab, promising interest-free loans of up to Rs100 million (10 crore) for entrepreneurs and low-markup financing for larger industrial projects.
The key announcement was made during high-level meeting with delegation of Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry at PITAC House, Lahore, led by Chamber President Khawaja Yasir Qayyum. Also present were PITAC Managing Director Mubeen Elahi and PBI Director Dr. Imran Hashmi.
The financing scheme is scheduled to be launched in October and is designed to improve access to capital for businesses, encourage industrial expansion, and accelerate economic activity across Punjab. Under the initiative, businesses will be able to secure interest-free financing of up to Rs100 million, while larger investments running into billions of rupees will be supported through loans carrying highly concessional markup rates.
The meeting also focused on the challenges facing Sargodha’s industrial sector, particularly the Small Industrial Estate, and explored measures to strengthen the province’s industrial base. Khawaja Yasir Qayyum informed the minister that nearly 100 industrial units are currently operational within the Sargodha Small Industrial Estate and urged the government to upgrade its infrastructure to support further industrial growth.
Responding to concerns, Chaudhry Shafay Hussain announced that Punjab government is preparing to launch a multi-billion-rupee infrastructure upgrade programme for 23 Small Industrial Estates across the province during the current year. He assured the delegation that Sargodha would be among the beneficiaries of the ambitious development initiative.
Minister pledged government backing against unnecessary interference, stating that if any public or private institution unfairly harasses industrialists or traders, he would personally stand with them and ensure their concerns are addressed.
The delegation further informed the minister that the Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry will organize Mango Festivals next month in Spain and South Africa to showcase Pakistani mangoes and expand their presence in international markets.
Shafay assured Chamber of the provincial government’s full cooperation, reaffirming its commitment to supporting export-led growth and strengthening Punjab’s industrial and trade sectors.
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