The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has partnered with the World Bank Group, through its private sector arm, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), to expand local currency financing and support private sector growth in Pakistan, according to a statement issued here on Monday.
Through an ISDA agreement, the partnership will enable IFC to manage currency risks more effectively and increase its investments in Pakistani rupees. This is an important step towards unlocking financing for critical sectors of the economy and creating jobs across the country.
The SBP governor, Jameel Ahmad, said that the partnership with IFC aims to enhance financing opportunities for the private sector. “Promoting private sector growth in Pakistan is paramount to successful, sustainable economic development of the country,” he added.
IFC Vice President and Treasurer, Treasury & Mobilisation, John Gandolfo said that with currency volatility posing significant risks to developing economies, access to local currency financing has never been more important. “Promoting this type of financing is a strategic priority for the World Bank Group and a catalyst for economic growth in Pakistan,” Gandolfo said.
Exchange rate risks pose a significant challenge for companies in developing economies that borrow in hard currencies, such as the U.S. dollar, while earning revenue in local currencies. Addressing this currency mismatch is essential not only to strengthen local businesses’ ability to mitigate risks and maintain financial resilience but also to support broader economic stability.
IFC said it is committed to leveraging innovative financial instruments and strengthening partnerships to address the growing need for local currency financing in emerging markets.
Through this partnership with IFC, SBP aims to bolster economic resilience, promote private sector development and improve foreign exchange liquidity in Pakistan.
