Pakistan, Oct. 12 -- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to increase lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to Rs2.2 trillion by 2028. The target would double the current volume of Rs1.1 trillion. He said SMEs have significant potential to support Pakistan's economic growth and create jobs.

The prime minister issued the directive during a meeting on the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA). Officials briefed him on ongoing reforms and measures to improve financial support for entrepreneurs. Sharif said these reforms should help businesses establish, expand and operate in a supportive environment.

He stressed the importance of developing businesses in underdeveloped areas. According ...