From its foundation in 2003 to its role today as Iraq’s leading trade-finance institution, the Trade Bank of Iraq has grown into a cornerstone of the national economy—balancing public mission with commercial ambition.
Established to reconnect Iraq with global markets, the Trade Bank of Iraq has become a trusted hub for trade finance, financial stability, and innovation, shaping the country’s economic future at home and abroad.
Establishment & Legacy
The Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI) was founded in 2003 as a state-owned specialist to facilitate international trade and support reconstruction. Born in a period of transition, it became the bridge between Iraqi businesses and foreign suppliers—issuing letters of credit and guarantees, and restoring access to international finance.
Two decades later, TBI remains Iraq’s premier trade-finance bank. While its product suite has expanded into retail and corporate banking, its essence is unchanged: ensuring goods, services, and capital flow efficiently into Iraq’s economy. Its position as one of the country’s largest banks by capital underscores the scale of its mission.
Strategic Role in Trade Finance
TBI continues to underwrite Iraq’s imports and exports with the same centrality it did at its inception. By providing letters of credit and guarantees, the bank ensures contractors secure equipment, industries obtain raw materials, and infrastructure projects receive financing.
TBI is steadily and confidently advancing towards enhancing financial inclusion and supporting the national economy,” – TBI Management.
Recent Achievements (2023–2025)
In last two years, TBI honored More Awards like:
- Best CSR Initiative – MENA Banking Excellence Awards, awarded by MEED.
- Leading Bank in Trade Finance Innovation – Iraq, awarded by The Global Economics (TGE).
- Leading Bank in Capital Expansion – Iraq, awarded by The Global Economics (TGE).
- Best Trade Bank – Iraq, awarded by INTERNATIONAL FINANCE.
- Best Capitalized Bank – Iraq, awarded by INTERNATIONAL FINANCE.
- The 2024 U.S. Dollar Clearing Elite Quality Recognition Award for Outstanding
Achievement of Best-in-Class MT103 STR Rate 99.68%, by J.P. Morgan.
Branch Expansion
By late 2025, TBI operated 29 branches nationwide, and one in KSA and representative office in Abu Dhabi, after a wave of new openings in Baghdad and beyond. Each branch was equipped with modern systems and digital tools, extending service coverage and promoting inclusion.
Commitment to Innovation
TBI has invested heavily in modernization. Digital banking enhancements—including updates to its mobile and online platforms—have given clients real-time access to balances, transfers, and trade-finance tracking.
Internally, TBI has streamlined back-office operations, introducing systems that align with ISO standards in transaction processing and compliance. Training programs for staff ensure technology is matched with capacity, embedding a culture of continuous improvement.
“Expanding our services with the latest technologies is essential to deliver unparalleled value to our customers,” – TBI management.
Correspondent Banking & International Reach
TBI’s footprint outside Iraq. It operates a representative office in Abu Dhabi (ADGM) and a branch in KSA, that contains employees.
Relationships with reputable international partners have strengthened in recent years, enhancing global credibility and resilience,” Mr. Bilal Sabah Hussein, Chairman, TBI.
Looking Ahead
TBI’s future strategy is shaped by three priorities:
- Scaling trade finance while diversifying into retail and corporate lending.
- Extending its footprint across Iraq’s governorates to broaden access.
- Deepening correspondent ties and partnerships abroad, with the ADGM office as a hub for regional engagement.
The bank has also pledged to introduce new services, strengthen its workforce, and remain a central partner in Iraq’s economic modernization.
As Iraq accelerates reconstruction and diversification, TBI’s role will remain pivotal—financing trade flows, facilitating investment, and building trust across borders.
