CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance initiative, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, continues to reshape Punjab’s business landscape. The CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance Program 2025 latest May update highlights a powerful three-month journey since its launch in January 2025, marking significant progress in economic inclusion and SME support.
During a high-level review meeting held on May 17, 2025, the Chief Minister celebrated major milestones achieved under the program, which is fast becoming one of the most impactful entrepreneurship schemes in Pakistan.
CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance May 2025 Highlights
- More than Rs. 61 billion in interest-free loans disbursed to over 107,000 beneficiaries.
- Over 57,913 new businesses launched across Punjab.
- More than 6,700 women entrepreneurs financially supported.
- Around 170,000 individuals empowered across the province.
- Phase II launching soon for fiscal year 2025–26 with a proposed Rs. 100 billion budget for 24,000 SMEs.
The cm punjab asaan karobar finance initiative is proving to be more than just a loan scheme—it’s a key step towards self-reliance and job creation in Punjab.
Objectives of the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance Program
The scheme is aimed at transforming Punjab’s economy by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), reducing unemployment, and promoting inclusive entrepreneurship.
- Facilitate the launch of over 100,000 startups to reduce unemployment.
- Encourage growth in export-focused sectors such as sports goods, garments, IT, and textiles.
- Promote business inclusion for women, transgender individuals, and differently-abled persons.
- Foster eco-friendly businesses using cleaner and sustainable production methods.
Key Features of the Program
The cm punjab asaan karobar finance program 2025 latest may update includes several business-friendly elements that make it attractive for startups and SMEs.
Interest-Free Loans
- Loan amounts range from Rs. 1 million to Rs. 30 million.
- Repayable over a five-year period with zero markup.
- Grace period of up to six months for startups and three months for existing businesses.
- Monthly installment plans with a minor penalty of Rs. 1 per Rs. 1,000/day on overdue payments.
Easy Application Process
- No requirement for NOCs, licenses, or blueprints.
- Digital application via akf.punjab.gov.pk.
- Required documents: CNIC, domicile certificate, rent agreement or property registry, two references, and a passport-sized photo.
- Processing time: Approximately 2 to 4 weeks through the Bank of Punjab.
Loan Tiers
- Tier 1: Rs. 1 million to Rs. 5 million (processing fee Rs. 5,000).
- Tier 2: Rs. 6 million to Rs. 30 million (processing fee Rs. 10,000).
- Land and Renewable Energy Support
- Free or subsidized land in Export Processing Zones.
- Up to Rs. 5 million worth of free solar systems for eligible businesses.
Asaan Karobar Card – Digital Credit for Small Vendor
To complement the main scheme, the Asaan Karobar Card offers smaller businesses interest-free credit up to Rs. 1 million through digital platforms.
Features
- Digital usage for vendor payments, utility bills, and government fees.
- 25 percent of the loan amount available as cash withdrawal.
- Revolving credit for 12 months followed by 24-month installment period.
- Annual fee of Rs. 25,000 plus FED (deducted from the loan).
- Non-refundable processing fee of Rs. 500.
- Application available at akc.punjab.gov.pk.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions to qualify for either scheme:
- Must be a resident of Punjab with a valid domicile.
- Age between 21 and 57 years.
- Must have a valid CNIC and be an active tax filer.
- Business should be based in Punjab (existing or planned).
- Special preference for IT startups in Nawaz Sharif IT City and export-based sectors.
- Applicants with outstanding loans, utility bills, or government dues are not eligible.
- Certain sectors like restaurants may be excluded.
How to Apply for CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme
Step-by-step process:
- Visit akf.punjab.gov.pk or akc.punjab.gov.pk.
- Register by providing CNIC, mobile number, and personal details.
- Upload required documents, including proof of residence and business information.
- Pay the relevant processing fee online (Rs. 500–1,000 depending on the loan tier).
- Application is verified digitally by the Bank of Punjab. Physical verification is usually waived for new businesses.
Note: Some users have reported accessibility issues on mobile. It is recommended to use a desktop or laptop for a smoother experience.
Support and Contact Information
For queries or assistance:
- Call the official helpline: 1786
- Visit the official portals:
- akf.punjab.gov.pk for Finance Scheme
- akc.punjab.gov.pk for Karobar Card
What’s Ahead in Phase II?
With Phase II of the cm punjab asaan karobar finance program expected to roll out in the 2025–26 fiscal year, the Punjab Government plans to extend support to an additional 24,000 businesses through a total loan disbursement target of Rs. 379 billion.
This initiative is not only encouraging entrepreneurship but also helping people stand on their own feet by providing real access to interest-free capital, especially in a time when inflation and economic pressure are making it harder for small businesses to survive.
If you’re looking to start a business or expand one in Punjab, this is the time to apply and take full advantage of this opportunity.
