The role of small and medium enterprises and poverty in Pakistan: An empirical analysis
ALI, Sharafat;RASHID, Humayun;KHAN, Muhammad Aamir;
theoretical and applied economics2014Vol. XXIpp. 67-80
271
ali2014thetheoretical
Abstract
The role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is very important in
economic growth, employment generation and poverty alleviation. Annual time
series data has been used to examine the impact of SMEs on poverty in Pakistan
for the period between 1972 and 2007. Log-linear autoregressive model has been
estimated by Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) method using one year previous value
of HCR as explanatory variable. The results of the study confirm a strong and
negative impact of small scale industries’ output on poverty levels in Pakistan. The
economic policy makers must focus on the establishment of formal financial
markets to overcome the financial constraints faced by the SME sector in Pakistan.
Simplification of lending procedures, enforcement of credit rights, and reduction in
credit costs would be helpful for the establishment of robust SME sector in
Pakistan.