In a significant step toward enhancing the capabilities of Pakistan’s commercial banking sector, a focused training session on “Supply Chain Financing & Digital Connectivity” was held from May 22 to May 23, 2025. The event took place at the National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF) Pakistan’s Karachi campus and was conducted in a face-to-face (F2F) format, emphasizing interactive learning and direct engagement.
The two-day program was led by Mr. Muhammad Jawad Shami, an expert known for his in-depth knowledge of supply chain finance and its intersection with emerging digital technologies. The training attracted a diverse group of participants from various commercial banks, reflecting the sector’s growing interest in leveraging technology to optimize financial operations and enhance business ecosystems.
Supply chain financing has become a critical area of focus for banks worldwide, especially as global trade dynamics evolve and businesses increasingly rely on seamless, real-time digital connectivity. The session at NIBAF provided a comprehensive overview of the principles and practical applications of supply chain financing, alongside detailed discussions on how digital connectivity tools can be integrated to streamline processes, reduce risks, and improve liquidity management.
One of the key highlights of the training was its emphasis on the digital transformation of traditional financing models. Participants were exposed to emerging fintech solutions and digital platforms that enable enhanced transparency and faster transaction processing within supply chains. This aligns with the broader trend in financial technology where banks are adopting innovative digital strategies to remain competitive and serve their customers more efficiently.
Mr. Shami’s approach combined theoretical frameworks with case studies and real-world examples, helping participants understand both the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital shift. The interactive format encouraged attendees to share their experiences and challenges, fostering a collaborative learning environment that addressed the specific needs of Pakistan’s banking landscape.
The training also covered regulatory considerations and best practices for compliance in digital supply chain financing. With the State Bank of Pakistan increasingly promoting digital finance initiatives, sessions like this are vital for preparing banking professionals to navigate the evolving regulatory environment while harnessing technological advancements.
Participants left the session equipped with actionable insights on deploying digital tools to facilitate supply chain finance, including the use of blockchain for transaction security, automated credit assessments, and digital documentation processes. Such innovations are expected to play a pivotal role in reducing financing gaps for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which form a crucial part of the country’s economic fabric.
This training event at NIBAF reflects the growing recognition within Pakistan’s commercial banking sector of the importance of integrating digital connectivity with supply chain finance. As banks continue to explore fintech partnerships and upgrade their digital infrastructures, such knowledge-sharing initiatives are key to driving sustainable growth and financial inclusion.
Looking ahead, the collaboration between financial institutions, regulators, and technology providers will be essential in shaping the future of supply chain financing in Pakistan. Training programs like this not only enhance the skills of banking professionals but also contribute to building a more resilient and digitally-enabled financial ecosystem.
The session marks a step forward in Pakistan’s journey toward modernizing its financial services through technology, reaffirming the critical role of education and capacity building in achieving these goals. With digital finance poised to transform traditional banking models, continued investment in training and knowledge dissemination will remain central to unlocking the full potential of supply chain financing in the country.