The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has significantly enhanced the financing limits for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to avail loans of up to Rs. 500 million. This initiative is part of the central bank’s ongoing efforts to bolster the SME sector, which plays a vital role in Pakistan’s economic growth.
According to a circular issued by SBP on Monday, small enterprises can now access financing of up to Rs. 100 million from a single bank or Development Finance Institution (DFI), or collectively from all banks and DFIs. The SBP also clarified that banks and DFIs are permitted to deduct the value of liquid assets—such as bank deposits, certificates of deposit or investment, Pakistan Investment Bonds, Treasury Bills, and National Saving Scheme Securities—held under their perfected lien when calculating the per-party exposure limit.
For medium enterprises, the financing limit has been raised to Rs. 500 million, which includes leased assets, from a single bank or DFI, or collectively from all banks and DFIs. The same deductions for liquid assets will apply for medium enterprises when calculating exposure limits.
This development is expected to provide a much-needed boost to SMEs, enhancing their ability to access greater funding and contribute more effectively to the national economy. The SBP’s decision aligns with its broader goal of fostering financial inclusion and promoting economic stability through increased credit flow to the SME sector.