It
has been decided to revise the branch licencing policy (BLP)
to liberalize the opening of new branches which may enable
the banks to expand their branch network and to provide more
compatible environment for the provision of financial services
to the general public.
The existing policy of State Bank of Pakistan granting
permission to open a new branch on case by case basis has
been dispensed with.
The banks have been provided an opportunity to take
a medium term view of their branch expansion plan based on
their own business needs.
2.
Accordingly, a copy of revised branch licencing policy
is enclosed which shall come into force with effect from 1st
April, 2001. The
banks are further advised that annual branch expansion plan
for the current calendar year 2001, if any, may be furnished
to SBP latest by 30th April, 2001 for consideration
and further necessary action.
All applications pending with SBP for opening of new
branches must be included in the current plan as all such
requests shall now be considered afresh under revised branch
licencing policy.
3.
Please acknowledge receipt.
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