What is the scheme?
The CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Card is a credit-card-style programme launched by the Punjab Small Industries Corporation (PSIC) under the leadership of Maryam Nawaz Sharif to support small businesses in Punjab. According to the official portal, the card provides “interest-free loans up to PKR 1 million” for micro enterprises. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, start-ups and existing small-scale enterprises to access working capital, equipment purchases and allow for easier business transactions via digital means.
Why it matters
Small and micro-businesses often struggle to get affordable financing. With this scheme:
- Business owners in Punjab get a specially issued card tied to their enterprise.
- No markup (“interest”-free) up to the specified limit means cost of borrowing is low.
- Digital access and tracking make the process transparent and more efficient, reducing manual bottlenecks.
- The policy aligns with Punjab’s broader goal of strengthening SMEs, generating employment and promoting digital / formalisation of micro-enterprises.
Key features
Here’s a table summarising the core parameters of the scheme:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Maximum loan / card limit | Up to PKR 1 million for the card. |
| Interest rate | 0 % markup (interest-free) for the card-loan component. |
| Repayment/tenure | Up to 3 years (according to official summary) for the card facility. |
| Disbursement method | Digital card, used for business expenses: vendor/supplier payments, utility bills, tax/fees, POS/mobile transactions. Up to 25% may be cash-withdrawn (in some versions). |
| Eligibility criteria | Resident of Punjab, valid CNIC, business (existing or new) in Punjab, clean credit history. |
| Application process | Online via official portal; digital verification. |
Step-by-step: how to apply
If you’re a small business owner in Punjab and want to apply, the process is roughly as follows:
- Visit the official portal: Visit Official Website
- Register using your CNIC, mobile number and business details.
- Complete the application form: business name, address, type of business, purpose of loan/card usage.
- Upload required documents: CNIC, business registration/rent agreement, bank statements, tax documents (if applicable).
- Pay any non-refundable processing fee (check current amount).
- Wait for digital verification: via NADRA, bank partner, PSIC etc. If approved, card is issued.
- Use the card for business expenses, ensure you use within scheme rules, and start repayments when required.
Eligibility & who should apply
You should consider applying if you fulfil the following:
- You reside in Punjab and hold a valid CNIC.
- You own or want to start a small business in Punjab (micro, small enterprise, store, manufacturing, services, etc).
- You have or can fulfil business registration requirements, or you’re willing to formalise.
- You have no major outstanding default or credit problems.
- You understand that the funds must be used for business purposes (not personal consumption).
Things to keep in mind – rules & caveats
- Although interest-free, you must repay the loan/credit as per schedule. Delays can lead to service charges.
- Funds must be used for business-purposes: paying suppliers, utility bills, equipment, digital transactions, etc. Non-business use is prohibited.
- While the card-limit is up to PKR 1 million (for small business card version), there are other broader programmes (e.g., the “finance” scheme for larger loans) you might confuse it with.
- The digital process helps speed things up, but you must ensure proper document uploads, accurate data and business legitimacy to avoid delays or rejection.
- Make use of any training or mentoring support offered under the scheme: many businesses benefit from that in addition to credit.
Example scenario
Suppose you run a small retail manufacturing unit in Lahore. You apply for the Asaan Karobar Card. The finance department approves you for PKR 900,000. You receive the digital card. You use it to pay your suppliers via POS/mobile app, purchase raw material, pay your shop utility bills, all eligible uses. You have 3 months of grace period before repayments start (per scheme rules). After that you begin EMIs or monthly repayments over the remaining tenure. Because the loan is interest-free, your cost is just the principal. You keep proper business records, maintain repayments, and the card has enabled you to scale your operations with minimal cost of capital.
What’s new / what to expect
In recent announcements, Phase 2 of the scheme is being rolled out to additional cities and sectors across Punjab. Also, in some reports the scheme’s loan limit and coverage are being broadened so more entrepreneurs and women-led businesses benefit. As always, you’ll want to keep an eye on the official portal for the latest updates.
FAQs
- What’s the maximum I can borrow under the Asaan Karobar Card?
Up to PKR 1 million for the card version. - Is there any interest charged on the loan?
No markup (0 %) for the card scheme. - Can new businesses apply or only existing ones?
Yes, both new and existing micro/small businesses are eligible, subject to meeting criteria. - What is the repayment period?
Up to 3 years in the card scheme. - Where can I apply?
Through the official portal: https://akc.punjab.gov.pk (or the PSIC portal). - What documents are needed?
CNIC, business registration or rent agreement, bank statements, proof of business, passport photo, etc. - Can I use the funds for personal expenses?
No, funds must be used for business activities only. - Is there a grace period before repayments begin?
Yes, the scheme provides a grace period (varies by implementation) before repayments start. - Who do I call if I have questions?
You can use the helpline: 1786 (as mentioned in the official scheme information). - What happens if I delay repayments?
Late payments may attract service or penalty charges and may affect your credit history or eligibility for future loans.
Conclusion
If you’re a small business owner in Punjab looking to expand or formalise your operations, the Asaan Karobar Card is a genuinely useful tool, offering affordable capital, digital ease and government-backed support. Make sure you meet the criteria, follow the application process properly, and use the funds strictly for business growth. Best of luck with your enterprise, may it grow and thrive!
