Punjab pledges greater support for SMEs to expand access to global markets

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has said that Punjab offers immense opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), adding that her government will extend every possible support to help SME businesses gain access to global markets. The CM said the Punjab government was supporting SMEs through the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme and the Asaan Karobar Card. She added that the Asaan Karobar Scheme had contributed to increased business activity in the transport and wholesale sectors, while SMEs in livestock, agriculture, handicrafts and garments were also being encouraged. She said investment in small businesses was essential for economic stability and prosperity, adding that the day also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. She said fostering an entrepreneurial culture through a conducive business environment remained one of the Punjab government’s priorities. The chief minister said SMEs generated employment and contributed to prosperity, describing them as the backbone of the economy. She said the decision not to increase taxes in the budget would significantly benefit SMEs. She said the province’s improved law and order situation had created a favorable environment for business activities, adding that the government was making every effort to help small industries overcome challenges by providing the necessary resources. The CM Punjab said greater attention was needed to strengthen logistics support, technological capacity and market access for medium-sized businesses. In her message on the occasion of the International Day of Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, the chief minister said the day was meant to focus government attention on the promotion of small and medium-sized businesses. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

Read full story on Business Recorder