Pakistan’s financial inclusion jumps to 67% as macroeconomic stability returns — SBP chief
KARACHI: Pakistan’s financial inclusion rate has risen to 67% in 2025 from 47% in 2018, the top central bank official said on Thursday, crediting digital innovation and policy reforms for expanding access to financial services.
The rise comes as the government and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) have stepped up efforts to strengthen microfinance and digital banking amid a period of relative macroeconomic stability. Officials have also urged the public to use formal banking channels and digital platforms to help build resilience in the financial system.
“Governor Jameel Ahmad highlighted that the financial inclusion rose from 47% in 2018 to 67% in June 2025 while the gender gap in financial access narrowed from 47% to 30% over the same period,” the central bank said in a statement issued after his speech to the ninth Annual Microfinance Conference in Karachi.
“Governor Ahmad assured that the State Bank remains fully committed to working alongside the microfinance industry to strengthen resilience, safeguard customers and expand outreach,” it added.
