NIBAF Pakistan conducted a two-day training program on August 26–27, 2025, at its Lahore campus, aimed at addressing the critical challenges banks face in Customer Due Diligence (CDD) compliance. The program brought together 19 banking professionals and focused on enhancing their understanding of regulatory frameworks, risk mitigation strategies, and operational best practices related to CDD.
Led by Mr. Shahid Iqbal, an expert in banking compliance and financial regulation, the training provided participants with a detailed overview of CDD principles, including customer identification, risk profiling, ongoing monitoring, and reporting obligations. The program emphasized practical applications, ensuring participants could integrate regulatory requirements seamlessly into their daily operations while minimizing compliance risks.
Interactive sessions formed a central part of the program, allowing participants to work through real-world scenarios and case studies. These exercises highlighted common challenges in implementing CDD processes, such as identifying beneficial ownership, managing high-risk clients, and handling complex financial transactions. Participants gained insights into the latest regulatory expectations from the State Bank of Pakistan and international best practices in anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) compliance.
The program also examined the role of technology in strengthening CDD processes, including the use of digital onboarding tools, automated risk scoring systems, and data analytics for monitoring customer behavior. Participants discussed the potential of AI and machine learning to streamline compliance workflows, detect anomalies, and ensure timely reporting of suspicious activities. These sessions highlighted the importance of integrating digital solutions with human oversight to enhance accuracy and operational efficiency.
A significant portion of the training focused on practical strategies for overcoming compliance challenges, including establishing robust internal controls, staff training, and effective documentation. Participants explored methods to maintain regulatory adherence while improving the customer experience, ensuring that CDD processes are both efficient and compliant with legal standards.
Feedback from attendees emphasized the relevance of the program in addressing the evolving regulatory landscape in Pakistan’s banking sector. Officers reported increased confidence in applying CDD measures effectively and appreciated the opportunity to discuss challenges with peers and experts in a collaborative environment.
By conducting this training, NIBAF Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to building capacity and promoting excellence in regulatory compliance across the country’s financial sector. Initiatives like this support banks in strengthening risk management frameworks, ensuring adherence to AML/CTF requirements, and enhancing the integrity and stability of the financial system.
The successful completion of this program underscores the ongoing need for professional development in compliance areas such as CDD, helping banking institutions maintain a proactive approach to regulatory changes while safeguarding operational efficiency and customer trust.