Pakistan announces Rs3bn risk pool to support SME exports

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a Rs3 billion risk pool designed to expand access to export credit insurance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Export Development Fund (EDF) and the Export-Import Bank of Pakistan (EXIM Bank of Pakistan).

During a high-level meeting, officials reported that the EDF has undergone restructuring, with its leadership now entrusted to private-sector experts. The fund's total available capital of Rs24 billion has been fully earmarked for investments to facilitate the business community, with a directive that no further funds be diverted toward infrastructure expenses.

Additionally, the government is working to extend Pakistan’s GSP Plus status to ensure continued preferential access to European markets. These measures are part of a broader strategic vision to transition toward an export-led economy and establish the country as a global investment hub.