AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
KARACHI: Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan and IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, have jointly announced a $400 million Risk-Participation Facility aimed at enhancing short-term trade and working capital for major local corporations and exporters in Pakistan. The initiative is expected to increase foreign exchange inflows and support sustainable economic growth in the country.
Rehan Shaikh, CEO and Head of Coverage at Standard Chartered Pakistan, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, noting that it strengthens the bank’s ability to support its clients in expanding their businesses and growth potential. He highlighted the bank’s significant presence in 53 markets across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, which positions it to enhance access to capital and liquidity, and promote global trade.
Momina Aijazuddin, Regional Head of IFC’s Financial Institutions Group, underscored IFC’s ongoing commitment to bolstering Pakistan’s financial sector and its export-driven industries. She pointed out that doubling the size of the Risk-Participation Facility will unlock crucial trade and working capital financing for businesses, fostering growth and job creation while contributing to the country’s economic resilience.
Formalized in September 2025, this new facility builds on a previous $200 million commitment made in December 2022. It leverages the expertise of both IFC and Standard Chartered in export-oriented and large-scale manufacturing industries in Pakistan, aiming to boost foreign exchange inflows and drive sustainable economic growth by enhancing the availability of trade and working capital loan facilities.