EXIM Bank of Pakistan has announced that PKR 300 billion allocated under the Export Finance Scheme (E-EFS) for fiscal year 2026-27 will be exclusively utilised to provide financing to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The decision follows the Government of Pakistan’s directives to facilitate export-led economic growth and improve access to financing for businesses operating within the SME sector. The allocation is part of the Pak EXIM-administered Export Finance Scheme, which provides financing support to businesses engaged in export-related activities. According to the bank’s announcement, the E-EFS financing envelope for FY 2026-27 had already been enhanced, with PKR 300 billion initially earmarked for SMEs, agricultural SMEs (Agri-SMEs) and new-to-borrower segments. Under the revised notification, the entire allocation has now been designated exclusively for SMEs, including both existing and new borrowers that meet the applicable eligibility requirements.
The revised allocation is intended to direct the designated financing capacity towards businesses falling within the SME definition prescribed under the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) Prudential Regulations for SMEs. This means that businesses seeking financing under the dedicated quota must qualify according to the relevant regulatory criteria established by the central bank. By reserving the full PKR 300 billion allocation for this segment, Pak EXIM has outlined a dedicated financing channel for eligible small and medium-sized businesses seeking support for their export-related activities. The inclusion of both existing and new borrowers also allows businesses that already have banking relationships, as well as those approaching banks for financing for the first time, to apply under the scheme, subject to applicable requirements. The decision places SMEs at the centre of the current E-EFS allocation and reflects the government’s focus on directing export finance towards businesses that meet the prescribed SME classification.
Pak EXIM has also confirmed that participating banks have already received their respective financing limits under the dedicated SME quota. Eligible businesses can therefore approach the participating banks to submit financing applications under the scheme. The allocation of limits among participating financial institutions provides an established channel through which prospective borrowers can seek access to the available financing. Businesses will need to meet the relevant SME eligibility criteria and applicable financing requirements set by the participating institutions. The bank has encouraged eligible SMEs to contact participating banks for information about the application process and available financing facilities. For further clarification or assistance, participating banks and prospective borrowers can also approach Pak EXIM through its dedicated support email address, support.eefs@eximbank.gov.pk. The bank has shared the notification in coordination with the broader government-led effort to facilitate businesses seeking export finance.
The exclusive allocation of PKR 300 billion represents a significant financing commitment towards Pakistan’s SME sector under the E-EFS framework for FY 2026-27. Small and medium enterprises form an important part of the country’s business ecosystem, and access to appropriate financing can help eligible businesses manage their working capital requirements, support export orders and participate in international trade. By directing the designated quota exclusively towards SMEs, the revised arrangement establishes a focused financing allocation for businesses meeting the SBP’s regulatory definition. The initiative is being pursued in line with the government’s export-led growth objectives, with Pak EXIM administering the scheme and participating banks serving as the financing channel for eligible applicants. SMEs interested in accessing the facility can approach their respective participating banks to understand the available financing options and application requirements under the E-EFS programme.
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