PM Shehbaz Sharif calls for broader financial, technical and market support for small and medium enterprises across Pakistan.
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) to formulate a comprehensive strategy to provide financial support to small and medium-sized industries and businesses across Pakistan.
Shehbaz chaired a meeting in Islamabad to review SMEDA’s initiatives aimed at providing financial assistance to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and businesspeople across the country.
The prime minister said promoting businesses and ensuring equal access to facilities and uniform technical support in all regions should remain among SMEDA’s foremost institutional objectives.
He directed the authority to develop a strategy that covers businesses and SMEs across the country, with a focus on expanding support beyond limited geographical areas and sectors.
Shehbaz also called for an expansion of SMEDA’s ongoing programs to ensure greater participation of women in small and medium-sized industries and businesses.
The prime minister further directed that digital platforms be used effectively to improve local entrepreneurs’ access to national and international commercial markets.
He emphasized that SMEDA’s strategy for business promotion should encompass the maximum possible number of regions and sectors.
The directions were issued during the review meeting as the government assessed SMEDA’s initiatives for supporting small and medium-sized industries and businesspeople.
SMEDA is a government institution focused on promoting and developing small and medium enterprises in Pakistan. The prime minister’s directions emphasized broader regional coverage, equal facilities, technical assistance, women’s participation and improved market access through digital platforms.
The meeting was held on Sept. 16, 2026, according to Prime Minister’s Office Press Release No. 351/2026.
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