High-value crop farmers: Askari Bank and Verdora Ventures launch Rs250m support facility

KARACHI: Askari Bank and Verdora Ventures Pvt Ltd have formalised a Rs 250 million farmer financing facility under the Askari Kissan Evergreen Finance Programme, marking a significant step towards strengthening Pakistan’s agricultural value chains, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable agribusiness growth.

The initiative reflects both organisations’ commitment to improving financial inclusion for farmers, supporting climate-resilient agricultural practices, and building a more productive and competitive agricultural ecosystem.

The facility agreement was signed during a ceremony attended by senior leadership from both organisations, including Zia Ijaz, President & CEO, Askari Bank; Abrar Hasan, Chairman, Verdora Ventures; Uzair Rabbani, Country Head Corporate Banking, Askari Bank and Syed M. Mahd, CEO Verdora Ventures.

Designed to provide Verdora Ventures with timely access to financing throughout the farming cycle, the facility will enable uninterrupted support to growers at critical stages of crop production. The initiative is expected to benefit farmers cultivating high-value crops such as tomatoes, turmeric, and chillies, helping improve productivity, crop quality, and market access.

Speaking on the occasion, Zia Ijaz, President & CEO, Askari Bank, said: “Agriculture remains the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, and at Askari Bank, we are committed to empowering farmers through structured, sustainable, and value-driven financial solutions. Our partnership with Verdora Ventures reflects our vision of strengthening agricultural ecosystems, enhancing food security, and contributing meaningfully to the country’s economic resilience.”

Syed M. Mahd, CEO, Verdora Ventures Pvt Ltd, added: “This financing facility is a decisive step in our ability to support farmers at scale. By securing working capital directly tied to our value chain, we can ensure that growers of high value crops receive the inputs they need on time, every season. It is a testament to what structured agribusiness partnerships can achieve.”

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026