SMEDA reaffirms support for women entrepreneurs

LAHORE: In celebration of Women Entrepreneurship Day, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs in Pakistan by addressing the unique challenges they face.

In a meeting held at SMEDA on Monday, Federal Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain; Federal Secretary for Industries and Production Saif Anjum; and SMEDA CEO Socrat Aman Rana expressed a shared commitment to creating a more conducive business environment for women entrepreneurs in the country.

Hussain highlighted that this year’s celebration of Women Entrepreneurship Day holds special significance, as SMEDA, under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries and Production (MoIP), is set to introduce a transformative ‘women entrepreneurship policy’, aimed at fostering growth, enhancing financial inclusion, and increasing market access for women entrepreneurs across Pakistan.

“Currently, only 10 per cent of women entrepreneurs have access to formal markets, and just 2.0 per cent utilise online marketplaces,” said Hussain. “Additionally, the 34 per cent gender finance gap and the mere 3.2 per cent share of SME lending directed to women-led enterprises indicate significant room for improving financial inclusion. SMEDA is working tirelessly to bridge these gaps, empowering women entrepreneurs to realise their full potential and become key drivers of Pakistan’s economic future.”

Hussain also praised SMEDA’s ongoing efforts to support women entrepreneurs and commended the resilience of Pakistani women. “Women Entrepreneurship Day celebrates the immense potential of Pakistan’s women, especially those in rural areas who sustain families and contribute significantly to our economy. The government is committed to breaking down barriers and creating an ecosystem where women-led businesses can thrive,” he added.

Saif Anjum emphasised the ministry’s commitment to developing policies that support women entrepreneurs. “Women Entrepreneurship Day reflects the vital role that women play in shaping Pakistan’s economic landscape. The contributions of businesswomen are driving innovation and job creation across the country,” he noted.

Aman Rana highlighted SMEDA’s role as a key partner in supporting women entrepreneurs. “On Women Entrepreneurship Day, we honour the resilience and determination of Pakistan’s women entrepreneurs, who drive change and fuel economic growth,” he said. He also emphasised that SMEDA’s upcoming women entrepreneurship policy will provide women with the tools and resources they need to solidify their role in shaping Pakistan’s economic future.

“As Pakistan moves towards a more inclusive economic landscape, Women Entrepreneurship Day serves as a reminder of the untapped potential within the women-led business sector,” he added. “We hope that with continued support from SMEDA, women entrepreneurs will be further empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute to the nation’s growth.”

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