KARACHI: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has issued draft guidelines on Regulatory Sandbox for public consultation.

The regulatory sandbox provides a controlled environment for innovators to test innovative products, business models, and technologies while the regulators understand their implications for financial stability and consumer protection.

The draft guidelines for regulatory Sandbox allow SBP regulated entities, FinTechs, and startups to participate in regulatory sandbox for testing new products, business models etc. As envisioned in SBP Vision 2028, the regulatory sandbox will encourage innovation in digital financial services and facilitate the existing and new market participants to build a robust digital payments ecosystem in Pakistan.

SECP restructures RSB, allowing applicants to apply throughout the year

Similarly, it will help SBP to issue instructions and regulations for new and innovative FinTech solutions, ultimately resulting in increased financial and digital inclusion in the country.

This initiative will also strengthen SBP’s engagement with stakeholders in shaping the future of the financial industry. SBP has therefore invited banks, FinTechs, industry experts, public and all interested parties to participate in the consultation process.

SBP said that interested parties are encouraged to access the draft Regulatory Sandbox framework, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and guidelines and feedback should be to SBP on or before January 8, 2024.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2023