Pakistan Expands Export Financing Through EXIM Bank and Digital Reforms
Pakistan is operationalising its Export-Import Bank, digitalising export credit processes and expanding concessional financing to improve the access of exporters to credit and strengthen their position in international markets, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan said on Tuesday.
This policy push aims to address long-standing hurdles faced by local businesses in securing affordable capital for overseas shipments. By modernising institutional frameworks and introducing new financial instruments, authorities hope to make domestic industries more competitive globally.
Where the Announcements Were Made
Jam Kamal made the remarks at the 42nd Session of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, known as COMCEC. The high-level meeting took place in Istanbul and was chaired by Turkiye Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz.
The annual gathering brings together representatives from member states to discuss multilateral economic strategies. Discussions frequently centre on boosting intra-bloc commerce, reducing trade barriers and sharing best practices in public administration and financial regulation.
Role of the Export-Import Bank of Pakistan
The minister said the Export-Import Bank of Pakistan now offers trade credit insurance, guarantees and refinancing facilities to protect exporters and support expansion into international markets, including OIC countries. He said Pakistan is also expanding Shariah-compliant financing instruments, including Murabaha, Salam and Ijarah, to give businesses alternatives consistent with Islamic principles.
Export credit agencies play a vital role in international commerce by absorbing commercial and political risks that private lenders often avoid. By providing guarantees and insurance, the institution shields local enterprises from buyer defaults or sudden payment delays abroad.
Digitalising Export Credit Processes
Jam Kamal said export credit processes are being digitalised through integrated online portals linking commercial banks and development finance institutions. He said the portals would cut processing times and improve financing access for micro, small and medium enterprises. Concessional financing facilities for exporters have also been substantially enhanced, he added.
Manual paperwork has historically slowed down capital disbursement for smaller firms seeking working capital loans. Moving these workflows online reduces bureaucratic delays and creates a transparent application trail for all participating financial institutions.
Addressing Trade Financing Needs in OIC Nations
Speaking on this year session theme, Developing Effective Trade Financing Tools for Increasing Exports in the OIC Member Countries, he stressed the need for affordable and innovative financing, particularly for small and medium enterprises. Small businesses often struggle to meet the strict collateral demands of traditional commercial lenders.
The minister reaffirmed the commitment to stronger economic and commercial partnerships with OIC member states, saying deeper trade integration could create significant opportunities for shared prosperity. Expanding commerce within the bloc helps diversify export destinations beyond traditional Western markets.
Pakistan Hosting the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development
He noted that Pakistan hosts the headquarters of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development, a platform connecting the private sectors of 57 Islamic countries. He said Pakistan would continue to support the institution as a link between businesses and policymakers to promote investment and commercial partnerships.
Having this headquarters in the country gives domestic business leaders direct access to regional networks and collaborative forums. It positions local commercial interests at the centre of broader transnational business dialogues across the Muslim world.
Technology and Regional Connectivity
Jam Kamal also called for closer cooperation among member states in digital integration, artificial intelligence and sustainable development, saying technological advances offer OIC countries opportunities to modernise their economies and improve trade competitiveness and regional connectivity.
He appreciated the role of COMCEC in promoting multilateral economic cooperation and developing practical solutions to trade challenges faced by Islamic countries. Coordinated policy frameworks help smaller economies navigate complex supply chain shifts and rising global shipping costs.
