Islamabad, Mar10 2025: British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, has unveiled a $75 million financing facility in collaboration with Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Pakistan’s leading financial institution.
This funding aims to enhance financial accessibility for farmers and agribusinesses, bolstering their resilience against climate change and fostering sustainable agricultural growth.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economy, contributing 24% to the GDP and employing 37% of the workforce, including the largest share of female workers.
However, the sector grapples with limited access to credit, outdated farming equipment, climate change vulnerabilities, and inefficient value chains.This initiative seeks to tackle these issues by providing targeted financial solutions.
HBL intends to allocate 50% of the funding to smallholder farmers, who make up over 90% of Pakistan’s agricultural community.
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Additionally, the financing will benefit agribusinesses across the entire supply chain, including production, processing, and logistics, ensuring a more integrated and resilient agricultural ecosystem.
A major aspect of this collaboration is promoting climate adaptation strategies, such as solar-powered irrigation systems.
Which aim to lower carbon emissions while strengthening farmers’ ability to withstand environmental challenges.
By expanding financial inclusion, integrating farmers and agribusinesses into modern value chains, and enhancing climate resilience.
The partnership is poised to increase agricultural productivity and improve food security across Pakistan.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE emphasized the importance of agriculture for Pakistan’s economy.
Stating that this initiative will help bridge financial gaps, enabling climate-resilient farming practices and contributing to economic stability.
Habib Yousuf, Regional Director for South Asia at British International Investment (BII), highlighted the partnership’s role in strengthening Pakistan’s agricultural framework. Ensuring sustainable sectoral growth while safeguarding livelihoods and national food security.
Maya Inayat Ismail, Chairperson of HBL Sustainability Forum, reiterated HBL’s commitment to sustainability, emphasizing the bank’s focus on climate-smart financing and risk mitigation programs.
She noted that this partnership will drive long-term financial stability for farmers, reinforcing HBL’s mission to support Pakistan’s agricultural transformation.
