Egypt-based fintech Halan Microfinance Bank has expanded its footprint into Pakistan following its acquisition of Advance Microfinance Bank.
The deal provides Halan with an existing license and a rapid route into one of South Asia’s fastest-growing microfinance sectors, according to an announcement.
The company announced plans to invest $10 million and aims to build a $500 million loan portfolio within five years, underscoring its commitment to boosting financial inclusion in Pakistan.
Halan is set to launch a digital banking application later this year, a move that will complement its planned expansion of physical branches. The bank intends to open 100 new branches nationwide as part of its growth strategy.
In addition, Halan is awaiting the issuance of a national banking license, which would enable further scaling of operations and diversification of its service offerings.
The financial institution will offer a range of products, including microfinance, SME lending, and digital financial services. Special emphasis will be placed on supporting women entrepreneurs, agriculture financing, and vehicle loans.
Pakistan’s microfinance sector has seen robust growth, with active borrowers reaching 10.78 million and the gross loan portfolio rising from Rs275 billion in 2018 to Rs565.8 billion in 2024.
Currently, Halan serves approximately 50,000 customers in Pakistan, and the bank plans to double this figure in the near term.
Globally, the company has disbursed $11 billion across markets such as Turkey, Egypt, the UAE, and now Pakistan.
Halan is also developing Shariah-compliant products and partnering with local firms to introduce embedded financing solutions, including advance salary disbursements and installment payment systems.
This strategic expansion is expected to enhance financial access for small businesses and individuals, further contributing to Pakistan’s economic development and the nation’s broader financial inclusion goals.
The move represents a strategic effort by Halan to tap into Pakistan’s potential in the microfinance sector, where digital adoption and government support are driving growth.
