HBL joins hands with Mastercard to launch business debit card for SMEs

KARACHI: HBL has joined hands with Mastercard in launching its business debit card designed exclusively for SMEs - sole proprietors and entrepreneurs. Two card variants have been launched, Classic and World Business Debit Card. This initiative marks a major stride in the Bank’s commitment to enable Pakistan’s businesses with innovative financial solutions and accelerating the shift towards a cashless Pakistan economy.

With over 5 million SMEs contributing nearly 40% to the national GDP and employing one-third of the country’s workforce, the need for sustained investment into the SME sector is essential for Pakistan’s economic prosperity. HBL has played a leading role in enabling this segment by becoming the first bank to surpass Rs 100 billion in SME lending.

The business debit card is a payment solution which ensures that SMEs can manage their day-to-day transactions, in a more seamless and convenient manner. HBL remains the largest issuer of debit cards in Pakistan, and the launch of the business debit card represents its commitment to financial inclusion and a digitized ecosystem across all customer segments.

The launch event, held at HBL Tower, Karachi and was attended by Muhammad Nassir Salim, President & CEO - HBL, Aamir Kureshi, Head, Products, Transactional Services & Solution Delivery - HBL, and J.K. Khalil, Division President, East Arabia - Mastercard, along with senior leaders from both institutions.

Speaking at the launch Muhammad Nassir Salim, President & CEO – HBL, said: “The Government of Pakistan and the State Bank continue to emphasize SME growth as a driver of economic stability, innovation, and employment. HBL stands aligned with this vision. By equipping SMEs, sole proprietors, and entrepreneurs with the means to transact securely and seamlessly, HBL is supporting the national agenda of enabling businesses to grow, formalize, and contribute to Pakistan’s economic progress.”

J.K. Khalil, Division President, East Arabia, Mastercard, said: “Small businesses are the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, and Mastercard and HBL share a commitment to empowering them to grow and thrive. Our latest collaboration aligns with our drive to expand our presence across key business segments in the country while accelerating the adoption of digital transactions. The initiative reinforces our dedication to driving financial inclusion and supports SBP’s vision to digitize SMEs and strengthen economic resilience.”

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