The number of women bank accounts in Pakistan has surged to 37 million, reflecting a major improvement in financial inclusion for women. This increase comes after the launch of the Banking on Equality policy in 2021, which aims to enhance women’s access to finance across the country.
Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Jameel Ahmad, highlighted the progress during the 2025 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group in Washington D.C. He stated that the gender gap in financial inclusion has narrowed from 39% to 30%, showing significant advancement in empowering women economically.
The SBP’s Banking on Equality initiative has had a wide-ranging impact. Female microfinance borrowers have increased by over 200%, while women’s financing for SMEs and agriculture has doubled. Moreover, more than 14,600 women have joined the banking workforce in the past three years, contributing to institutional diversity.
Governor Ahmad also announced that the second phase of the Banking on Equality policy is being finalized. This phase will focus on digital solutions, business profiling, and remote financing channels to further support women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Additionally, the SBP has adopted the WE-Finance Code, an initiative of the World Bank and international partners, aimed at reducing gender gaps in MSME financing. Together with 22 banks, the SBP has committed to the code, forming a unified national effort to advance women’s financial inclusion.
Governor Ahmad stressed that consistent gender-positive strategies, women-friendly industry environments, and capacity-building initiatives are essential to further empower women entrepreneurs. He also emphasized the role of women in driving inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Pakistan.
In other related news also read Bank Alfalah intends to enhance financial inclusion for rural women.
The rise in women bank accounts not only narrows the gender gap but also supports economic development, job creation, and financial stability. Pakistan’s focus on women’s financial inclusion demonstrates the country’s commitment to creating equal opportunities in banking and entrepreneurship.
