In its continued effort to build technical capacity within Pakistan’s central banking structure, the National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF) conducted a specialized training session on international trade for the 27th batch of the State Bank Officers Training Scheme (SBOTS-27). The session took place on June 14, 2025, and was led by Mr. Saud Shahid, an expert in international trade practices and banking operations.
The training was part of a broader curriculum aimed at equipping new officers of the State Bank of Pakistan with in-depth knowledge of key financial systems, global trade dynamics, and regulatory frameworks that influence cross-border transactions. Held under the structured environment of SBOTS, this session exemplified NIBAF’s targeted approach to developing a skilled and informed cadre of central bankers.
International trade is a vital component of economic stability and growth. For a central bank like the SBP, understanding trade mechanisms and the associated financial instruments is essential in shaping policies that support national economic objectives. This session addressed these needs by covering key trade finance concepts, including letters of credit, documentary collections, incoterms, compliance obligations, and risk mitigation techniques in cross-border deals.
Mr. Saud Shahid, known for his deep insights into international banking operations and trade finance, steered the session with clarity and practical orientation. His presentation connected theoretical models with real-world applications, helping SBOTS-27 participants relate global trade practices with the regulatory role of Pakistan’s central bank. His teaching also highlighted the evolving landscape of international trade, impacted by geopolitical shifts, trade agreements, sanctions regimes, and digitization of trade documentation.
Throughout the session, participants engaged in analytical discussions, case-based problem solving, and scenario analysis aimed at enhancing their ability to process, assess, and regulate trade transactions in compliance with global standards and national interests. The session encouraged critical thinking around how international trade policy intersects with monetary policy, exchange rate stability, and foreign reserves management.
This training further reinforced NIBAF’s reputation as a pivotal institution in Pakistan’s financial education ecosystem. Its close integration with the State Bank ensures that officers entering the field are well-prepared for the complexities of modern central banking. By incorporating such technical modules into the SBOTS program, NIBAF supports the SBP’s long-term goals of institutional excellence, financial transparency, and operational readiness.
The SBOTS-27 batch is expected to undergo several more specialized modules as part of their comprehensive induction. However, the inclusion of a focused international trade session underscores the strategic importance of trade finance knowledge in the SBP’s regulatory portfolio.
With this initiative, NIBAF continues to play a leading role in shaping the next generation of banking professionals, ensuring that they are aligned with global practices while rooted in the national financial framework.