Microfinance is still relatively new to Pakistan, both in concept and practice, and therefore it has a less developed microfinance sector than its Asian peers.  While the sector has grown significantly in the last 7 years, it still has huge to do to reach the massive low-income segment of the market. Until 2000, the main providers of microfinance in Pakistan were NGOs and government sponsored rural support networks. With few exceptions, these institutions are generally not specialized in microfinance, nor have they demonstrated financial sustainability. 

Despite growing interest (both state and commercial) in the MF sector, there is still a notable lack of penetration and efficiency in the Pakistani MFIs market.  The newer institutions are growing rapidly, but total outreach of these organizations is still less than 5% of the estimated 22 million poor households in Pakistan that has the right of access to microfinance services.  Furthermore, Pakistani MFIs are substantially less efficient than their Asian peers.

Figures in million

Status of ASA International (ASAI) in Pakistan:  ASA international has established a non-depository Microfinance Institution namely ‘ASA Pakistan Limited and it is 100% subsidiary of ASA International.

Main Product and Feature

Operational Coverage

At present, ASA Pakistan Ltd. is working in mainly Karachi city. It has the plan to expand the coverage in upcoming future.

Source of Fund: Shareholder’s equity

Performance (Lending Started in September 2008)

Contact: pakistan@asa-international.com

Phone:  + 92 21 5477179

Head office: T-61, Block-6,

      P.E.C.H.S (Nursery),

      Karachi, Pakistan.