Punjab Budget 2026: Govt eyes $6bn Export Capacity through New Industrial Financing initiatives

LAHORE – Punjab government unveiled ambitious industrial and investment roadmap in the FY2026-27 budget to accelerate economic transformation, boost exports, generate employment and reduce poverty through large-scale public and private sector investment. Presenting the government’s industrial agenda, officials said economic growth and poverty alleviation are deeply interconnected, adding that sustainable employment, rising investment and enhanced exports remain central to improving living standards across the province. Maryam Nawaz-led government implemented CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Card, CM Punjab Asaan Karobar, and CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Export Finance schemes during the outgoing fiscal year at a combined cost of Rs47.7 billion. Under these initiatives, more than 110,000 entrepreneurs received interest-free loans worth Rs125 billion to support business expansion and job creation. The government rolled out the Sanati Taraqi & Export Promotion (STEP) Financing Program with an allocation of Rs193 billion. The program will provide subsidized financial support to 463 industrial projects and is expected to mobilize Rs300 billion in private investment, create 29,400 direct jobs and generate an additional export capacity of $5.6 billion. Medium and large-scale industries will be eligible for subsidized loans of up to Rs5 billion with a repayment period of 10 years. To promote digital trade and improve global market connectivity, the government allocated Rs700 million for E-Biz and E-Commerce Readiness initiatives. The program aims to establish e-commerce hubs and strengthen online business infrastructure. Officials said digital transactions worth Rs6.9 billion have already been facilitated under the initiative. Four dedicated e-commerce centers will support 2,000 businesses in accessing international markets, with annual export activity expected to increase by $24.5 million. The horticulture and floriculture sectors will also receive targeted support through the STEP prog