Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched the Chief Minister Pink Salt Value Addition Financing Scheme to promote local processing, exports, and job creation in the province’s pink salt sector.
Under the scheme, eligible businesses will be able to obtain soft loans ranging from Rs. 5 million to Rs. 50 million. The loans will be offered on easy installments over a period of five years.
The initiative has been designed to support pink salt processing, refining, packaging, and related machinery. It will also help businesses move toward international quality standards and improve the global image of Pakistani pink salt.
According to the details, the government will cover the interest on the loans through Annual Development Program funding, making the facility more affordable for small and medium enterprises.
The scheme targets around 200 SME loan applicants and is expected to create more than 10,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
Around 110 acres in Quaidabad in Khushab district will also be used to establish pink salt mineral processing zones. More than 200 industrial units are expected to be set up in these zones.
The government said the scheme will help increase revenue through value addition and improve provincial earnings. It will also support the development of wellness products and salt handicrafts.
The Mines and Minerals Department has digitized the entire process to ensure faster applications and approvals.
Officials said the move is aimed at presenting Pakistani pink salt in the global market under its real identity as a “Made in Pakistan” product, instead of allowing its value to be captured by other countries through rebranding or resale.
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