KARACHI: HBL has released its Impact and Sustainability Report 2024, detailing the bank’s efforts to expand financial inclusion, support agriculture and address environmental and social priorities, according to a statement issued on Monday.
The report outlines initiatives across HBL Bank, HBL Microfinance Bank, HBL Zarai Services and the HBL Foundation, covering areas including access to finance in underserved regions, support for women-led businesses, agricultural value chains and community programmes in health, education and humanitarian relief.
HBL said the report also highlights steps taken to strengthen environmental practices, including renewable energy use, green financing and climate-resilient solutions. The bank’s sustainability strategy is guided by its governance framework and its majority shareholder, the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development.
According to the report, HBL Zarai Services continues to focus on improving productivity and resilience in Pakistan’s agricultural sector, while the microfinance arm targets greater outreach to low-income and rural customers. The HBL Foundation supports social development initiatives outside the bank’s core lending activities.
President and Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Nassir Salim said sustainability considerations were integrated into the bank’s business strategy rather than treated as a separate agenda.
The report is aligned with international frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Reporting Initiative, and aims to track the bank’s progress in responsible banking practices across its operations and value chain.
