KARACHI, April 23, 2026: President and CEO of BankIslami Pakistan Limited Rizwan Ata has stressed that a strong relationship between the banking sector and industry is essential for Pakistan’s sustainable economic growth, urging enhanced financial support for businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
OGDC Restores Gas Output from Jand-1 Well in Attock, Boosts Domestic Energy Supply
He expressed these views during a visit to the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), where he met industrialists and business leaders. Senior representatives from both the bank and the industrial body attended the meeting.
Rizwan Ata said that long-term economic stability depends on a strong industrial base supported by a resilient financial system. He reiterated that BankIslami is committed to providing Shariah-compliant, transparent, and efficient financing solutions tailored to industrial and SME needs.
He added that Islamic banking promotes real economic activity rather than speculative lending, helping strengthen business confidence and fostering sustainable growth. He assured that the bank will continue improving its financial products to better serve industrial clients.
KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput highlighted that limited access to affordable financing remains a major challenge for the industrial sector. He said easier and low-cost financing could significantly enhance production capacity and boost exports.
Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya called for dedicated financing schemes for the Korangi Industrial Zone, including concessional credit, export financing, and working capital support to facilitate business expansion.
KATI Standing Committee Chairman Rashid Siddiqui emphasized the need for flexible and practical banking policies, noting that Islamic finance provides a transparent framework that can strengthen investor and business confidence.
Industrial stakeholders also raised concerns regarding financing procedures, interest/return rates, and digital banking services, urging the introduction of streamlined and export-focused financial products. BankIslami representatives assured that all feedback would be reviewed for future policy development.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration between the banking and industrial sectors to support economic growth and industrial development in Pakistan.
