Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has identified small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), housing and agriculture as key sectors for economic growth and directed relevant institutions to address obstacles to financing.
Chairing a meeting in Islamabad to review access to credit for priority sectors, the prime minister instructed the finance minister to resolve financing issues and develop a comprehensive strategy.
He also directed the State Bank of Pakistan and the Federal Board of Revenue to address tax-related problems faced by SMEs and exporters.
Shehbaz Sharif said improving the economy and creating employment opportunities for young people were among the government's top priorities. He described SMEs as an important source of economic growth, export expansion and job creation.
Calling agriculture the backbone of Pakistan's economy, the prime minister emphasised adding value to agricultural products to increase exports.
He also said the Apna Ghar housing scheme could support the construction sector and related industries. Banks that were slow to provide loans to eligible customers, he added, should not receive preferential treatment.
