Pakistan Banks’ Association to Develop A Blockchain-Based KYC Platform

The Pakistan Banks’ Association (PBA) — a group of 31 traditional banks operating in Pakistan — signed off on developing a blockchain KYC platform.

Pakistan Banks’ Association to Develop Country's First Blockchain eKYC Platform

On March 2, the PBA signed the project contract to develop Pakistan’s first blockchain-based national eKYC banking platform. The move aims to strengthen Anti-Money Laundering capabilities while countering terror financing — an initiative led by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The member banks include international establishments such as the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Citibank, and Deutsche Bank. Moreover, the blockchain platform will improve operational efficiencies, primarily aimed at improving customer experience during onboarding. The Avanza Group has been tasked to develop the blockchain-based eKYC platform named “Consonance,” which will be used by member banks to standardize and exchange customer data via a decentralized and self-regulated network. However, the customer details will be shared based on consent — allowing banks to assess existing and new customers.

Bid to Catch Up With Other CBDC Projects

Joining other countries in the race to develop a central bank digital currency (CBDC), Pakistan recently signed new laws to ensure the launch of a CBDC by 2025. The SPB will issue licenses to electronic money institutions for CBDC issuance.