Pakistan seeks to expand export financing through EXIM Bank, digital platforms

Pakistan is seeking to strengthen export financing through the operationalisation of its Export-Import Bank, digitalisation of export credit processes and expansion of concessional financing facilities to improve exporters’ access to credit and enhance their competitiveness in international markets, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan said.

The minister made the comments while addressing the 42nd Session of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation (COMCEC) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, read a statement on Tuesday.

Addressing the high-level gathering chaired by Türkiye Vice President H.E. Cevdet Yılmaz, the commerce minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic and commercial partnerships with OIC member states, emphasising that greater trade integration could unlock substantial opportunities for shared prosperity across the Islamic world.

Highlighting this year’s theme, “Developing Effective Trade Financing Tools for Increasing Exports in the OIC Member Countries,” Jam Kamal stressed the importance of expanding access to affordable and innovative financing solutions, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to enable them to enter international markets and become competitive exporters.

The minister said Pakistan had undertaken concrete measures to modernise its trade ecosystem, reduce export-related risks and facilitate businesses seeking access to new markets.

He highlighted the operationalisation of the Export-Import Bank of Pakistan (EXIM Bank), which provides trade credit insurance, guarantees and refinancing facilities to protect exporters and support their expansion into international markets, including OIC countries.

Jam Kamal told the gathering that Pakistan was also expanding Shariah-compliant financing instruments, including Murabaha, Salam, and Ijarah, to offer businesses alternative financial solutions consistent with Islamic principles.

Emphasising the importance of financial accessibility, the minister said Pakistan was digitalising export credit processes through integrated online portals connecting commercial banks and development finance institutions. These initiatives, he noted, would reduce processing times and improve access to financing for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

He further highlighted that Pakistan had substantially enhanced concessional financing facilities for exporters to strengthen their competitiveness and facilitate greater participation in international trade.

The commerce minister underscored Pakistan’s role as host of the headquarters of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD), describing it as an important platform connecting the private sectors of 57 Islamic countries.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued support for the ICCD as a bridge between businesses and policymakers to promote investment, commercial partnerships and stronger private-sector engagement across OIC member states.

Referring to emerging global economic challenges, Jam Kamal emphasised the need for closer cooperation in digital integration, artificial intelligence and sustainable development.

He said rapid technological advancements presented new opportunities for OIC countries to modernise their economies, improve trade competitiveness and strengthen regional economic connectivity.

The minister appreciated COMCEC’s role in promoting multilateral economic cooperation and developing practical solutions to common trade challenges faced by Islamic countries.