The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced a $350 million financial package for Pakistan to support women’s economic inclusion through the second phase of its Women-Inclusive Finance Sector Development Program.

The package includes a $300 million policy-based loan aimed at advancing gender-responsive legal and policy reforms, and a $50 million financial intermediation loan to expand credit facilities and guarantees for women-led businesses. The initiative is expected to help over 2 million women across Pakistan gain access to finance and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Also Read: BISP 8171 beneficiaries to get double payments from 23rd June

“This program is ambitious, with a goal to help women fulfill their potential through a combination of financial access, legal reforms, and entrepreneurship capacity building,” said ADB Director Sani Ismail.

Aligned with Pakistan’s Country Partnership Strategy 2021–2025, the program targets the country’s widening gender gap. Pakistan currently ranks second-lowest among 146 countries on the 2024 Global Gender Gap Index, and women face a 37% financial access gap.

ADB emphasized that sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Pakistan is not possible without integrating women into the mainstream economy. The initiative is part of ADB’s broader mission to promote inclusive and resilient development across Asia and the Pacific.

Founded in 1966 and owned by 69 member countries, ADB continues to support Pakistan through innovative financial tools and policy reforms aimed at long-term transformation.