Islamabad: In commemoration of Women Entrepreneurship Day, the Ministry of Industries and Production has reiterated its commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs in Pakistan by addressing the challenges they encounter. Federal Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Secretary Mr. Saif Anjum, and SMEDA CEO Mr. Socrat Aman Rana, during a meeting at SMEDA, expressed a shared determination to create a favorable business environment for female entrepreneurs in the country.SBP to Celebrate Women Entrepreneurship Day on November 19
Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain stated that this year’s observance of World Women Entrepreneurship Day is particularly significant, as SMEDA, under the auspices of the Ministry of Industries and Production, is set to launch a groundbreaking Women Entrepreneurship Policy. The policy aims to promote growth, improve financial inclusion, and increase market access for women entrepreneurs nationwide.
Currently, only 10% of women entrepreneurs have access to formal markets, and a mere 2% make use of online platforms, he added. Furthermore, the 34% gender financing gap and the 3.2% share of SME lending allocated to women-led businesses indicate substantial opportunities for improving financial inclusion. He shared that SMEDA is diligently working to close these gaps, empowering women entrepreneurs to unlock their full potential and play a pivotal role in Pakistan’s economic future.
Rana Tanveer Hussain commended SMEDA’s efforts to support women entrepreneurs and praised the resilience of Pakistani women. “Women Entrepreneurship Day celebrates the vast potential of women in Pakistan, particularly those in rural areas who support their families and make significant contributions to our economy. The government is committed to removing obstacles and creating an environment where women-led businesses can flourish,” he emphasized.
Federal Secretary of Industries & Production, Mr. Saif Anjum, in his remarks, highlighted the ministry’s dedication to formulating policies that support women entrepreneurs. “Women Entrepreneurship Day,” he said, “celebrates the crucial role women play in shaping Pakistan’s economic landscape. Their contributions are driving innovation and job creation across the country.”
SMEDA CEO, Mr. Socrat Aman Rana, emphasized SMEDA’s role as a key partner for women entrepreneurs. “On Women Entrepreneurship Day, we honor the perseverance and determination of Pakistan’s women entrepreneurs who are instigating change and contributing to economic growth,” he said. He further stressed that SMEDA’s upcoming Women Entrepreneurship Policy would provide women with the necessary resources and tools to solidify their role in shaping the nation’s economic future.
As Pakistan moves towards a more inclusive economic landscape, Women Entrepreneurship Day serves as a reminder of the untapped potential within women-led businesses, he concluded, expressing hope that through continued support from SMEDA, women entrepreneurs would be further empowered to lead, innovate, and drive the country’s growth.
