The International Bank of Tajikistan (IBT) is enhancing its digital banking offerings with the implementation of open banking APIs, data-driven credit scoring, and international transfer tools, in line with its branchless growth strategy. This initiative comes after the bank emerged as one of Tajikistan's largest by assets in 2025.
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Operating primarily through a mobile app instead of a traditional branch network, IBT has concentrated on premium banking, small-business loans, and international money transfers. Deputy Chairman Dilafruz Khalikova highlighted that while the standard industry practice in Tajikistan has been to create distinct products for mass-market and premium clients, IBT aims to deliver added value to cardholders with premium benefits—such as enhanced travel insurance, complimentary airport lounge access via DragonPass, Fast Track services, and yQ Meet & Assist at airports.
Khalikova noted that this focus on customer experience has been a key factor in the bank's notable asset growth. "Financial inclusion and a premium experience rarely coexist in the same institution. We set out to prove they can," she stated.
Tajikistan, home to around 11 million people and characterized by challenging mountainous terrain, faces limitations in branch accessibility. Remittances from abroad have historically been vital to the nation’s economy. To address this, IBT developed its IBT24 mobile banking platform, integrating major international payment systems like Visa, Mastercard, and UnionPay. This allows users to transfer money directly to bank accounts overseas, moving away from reliance on cash pickup services.
In the near term, IBT plans to further develop its IBT24 app, enhance digital transaction tools, and focus on premium and small-business clients along with international transfer services while maintaining its credit ratings. Founded in 2014, IBT leverages its lack of outdated core systems to streamline product updates. The bank was among the first in Tajikistan to adopt Visa and UPI card tokenization for Android and offers instant card issuance at its branches. Its Visa credit card, named "Insof"—the Tajik term for conscience—focuses on responsible lending rather than just maximizing credit limits, and the IBT24 platform also facilitates merchant acquiring, cash management, and lending for small and medium enterprises.