Habib Bank Limited (HBL) has partnered with Mastercard to launch the Business Debit Card, a payment solution designed specifically for SMEs, sole proprietors, and entrepreneurs. Two variants are being introduced — the Classic and the World Business Debit Card — reflecting HBL’s commitment to driving financial inclusion and accelerating Pakistan’s transition towards a cashless economy.
Strengthening Pakistan’s SME Sector
With over 5 million SMEs contributing nearly 40% of the national GDP and employing one-third of the country’s workforce, sustained support for this sector remains vital to Pakistan’s economic prosperity. HBL has played a pioneering role in this space, becoming the first bank to surpass PKR 100 billion in SME lending while also introducing non-collateralized financing to expand credit access.
The launch of the Business Debit Card expands this support further, providing SMEs with a convenient, secure, and efficient way to manage daily financial transactions. As the largest issuer of debit cards in Pakistan, HBL is strengthening its role in building a more digitized financial ecosystem.
Launch Event Highlights
The launch ceremony took place on August 27, 2025, at HBL Tower, Karachi, attended by:
- Muhammad Nassir Salim, President & CEO – HBL
- Aamir Kureshi, Head of Products, Transactional Services & Solution Delivery – HBL
- J.K. Khalil, Division President, East Arabia – Mastercard
alongside senior executives from both organizations.
Leadership Remarks
Muhammad Nassir Salim, President & CEO – HBL, said:
“The Government of Pakistan and the State Bank emphasize SME growth as a cornerstone of stability, innovation, and employment. HBL is aligned with this vision. By equipping SMEs, sole proprietors, and entrepreneurs with secure and seamless transaction solutions, we are enabling businesses to grow, formalize, and contribute to the nation’s economic progress.”
J.K. Khalil, Division President, East Arabia, Mastercard, added:
“Small businesses are the backbone of Pakistan’s economy. Our collaboration with HBL reinforces our commitment to empowering SMEs while accelerating the adoption of digital transactions. This launch supports the State Bank’s vision of digitizing SMEs and strengthening the economy’s resilience.”
Aamir Kureshi, Head of Products, Transactional Services & Solution Delivery – HBL, stated:
“HBL has long championed SME lending. The Business Debit Card extends this support from financing into payment solutions, enabling fast, secure, and convenient transactions. It reflects our vision to help every business thrive in a digital-first economy.”
A Decade of Partnership
HBL and Mastercard have partnered since 2013, consistently introducing innovative payment solutions in Pakistan. With this latest launch, both institutions reaffirm their commitment to financial inclusion and empowering businesses to transition confidently toward a digital future.
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