The National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF) Pakistan recently held a certificate distribution ceremony for participants of its three-week comprehensive training on Foreign Trade Finance. The program, conducted from September 2 to 19, 2025, in Islamabad, marked the successful completion of the second batch of Askari Bank officers who underwent intensive training on this critical area of banking operations. Certificates were awarded by Sajid Ali, Director Learning and Development at NIBAF.
The training initiative underscores the growing emphasis on building expertise in foreign trade finance, a domain that plays a pivotal role in strengthening Pakistan’s financial system and supporting international trade. NIBAF’s structured curriculum is designed to provide participants with practical knowledge of trade finance instruments, regulatory compliance, and risk management in cross-border transactions. This is increasingly relevant as the country’s banking sector aligns itself with global financial practices to meet the evolving needs of businesses engaged in international trade.
Beyond this three-week program, NIBAF has also been actively conducting shorter refresher courses for Askari Bank’s workforce. Over the past three months, more than 200 bank officials attended specialized three-day refresher sessions on Foreign Trade Finance. These sessions, held at Askari Bank’s regional learning centers across Pakistan, were aimed at reinforcing existing knowledge while keeping participants updated with recent developments and best practices in the field.
Combined with the latest batch, the total number of Askari Bank officials trained by NIBAF on Foreign Trade Finance has now reached nearly 300 within a relatively short span of time. This achievement highlights both the institution’s capacity to deliver impactful training programs and Askari Bank’s commitment to upskilling its workforce in one of the most essential areas of financial services.
Foreign trade finance forms the backbone of international commerce, enabling businesses to expand globally by ensuring smoother financial transactions and risk mitigation between exporters and importers. With increasing globalization and digital transformation in banking, the demand for professionals well-versed in trade finance operations continues to grow. NIBAF’s initiatives are designed to close the skills gap in this sector, equipping financial professionals with the tools needed to manage complex trade transactions efficiently.
The successful conclusion of this program also reflects a broader push in Pakistan’s financial sector towards capacity-building and professional development. With banks facing challenges related to compliance, digital integration, and customer demands for seamless cross-border services, the need for specialized training programs has become more pressing. By investing in the professional growth of its officers, Askari Bank is strengthening its ability to serve clients engaged in international business, while simultaneously contributing to the development of Pakistan’s financial infrastructure.
NIBAF reaffirmed its commitment to advancing learning initiatives that enhance expertise in banking and finance. The institution emphasized that programs such as the one conducted for Askari Bank officers will continue to be expanded, as part of its broader mandate to support the professional development of financial institutions across the country.
Follow the PakBanker Whatsapp Channel for updated across Pakistan’s banking ecosystem.