Incoming foreign currency transfers to the Bank in MX format SWIFT messages are now processed directly within the banking system without the need for third party conversion applications and are integrated into the automated payment structure.
Participation in the Strength of the Economy
Trade Finance Operations
Trade finance operations are carried out in line with the Bank's overall strategy and in accordance with the principles of digitalization, sustainability, efficiency, and continuous improvement. In this context, it is aimed to develop processes that are simple, user friendly, and based on full automation. To support operational excellence, foreign trade advisory activities are conducted; branches and customers are visited, and informative presentations on the Bank's foreign trade practices are delivered. In addition, regular in house training programs are organized for trade finance operations staff to continuously enhance their knowledge and competencies.
Digitalization and Transformation of SWIFT Infrastructure
In 2025, significant initiatives were implemented in foreign trade transactions with a focus on digitalization and process improvement. Within the scope of the ISO 20022 SWIFT Integration Project, incoming foreign currency transfers in MX format SWIFT messages were enabled to be processed directly within the banking system without the need for third party conversion applications and integrated into the automated payment structure. Accordingly, the Bank's systems were aligned with the ISO 20022 SWIFT standards to be implemented as of November 2025; dependency on third party applications was eliminated, and incoming foreign currency transfer screens were redesigned with a user-friendly interface, thereby enhancing operational efficiency. Development efforts for bulk SWIFT transfers are planned to continue in the upcoming period. In addition, the implementation of SWIFT pre validation, the introduction of the Visa payment method, and the diversification of foreign trade products offered through digital channels are targeted.
Efforts to strengthen digital monitoring and information infrastructure have also continued. The G4C In Transit Incoming Transfer Monitoring feature has been added to the SWIFT Tracking Screen, enabling branches to track foreign currency transfers initiated from any bank worldwide before the funds are credited to the Bank.
In import transactions, the automatic closure of import letter of credit files and the system based release of residual risks have been enabled, aiming to shorten processing times and reduce operational errors.
Close collaboration is maintained with other business units within the scope of trade finance operations The relationship between foreign currency transfer processes and the Compliance Department has been restructured, while renewal efforts for internet and mobile branches have been carried out in cooperation with the Digital Banking Department.
Through these developments, it is aimed to strengthen compliance with domestic and international regulations, reduce dependency on third parties, decrease paper usage, shorten processing times, and enhance employee productivity. The operational impacts of these improvements are regularly monitored through efficiency initiatives conducted within the department.
Customer Experience and Transparency
From a customer experience perspective, a total of 25 different notification types are provided for foreign trade transactions, enabling customers to be informed at every stage via email, SMS, and push notifications. In addition, access to GPI and G4C SWIFT tracking features through digital channels enhances transaction transparency.
Customers are informed at every stage of their transactions through 25 different notification types specifically designed for trade finance operations
Customer communication processes have also been further improved. In addition to SMS and email notifications related to foreign trade transactions, a push notification infrastructure has been introduced. Within this scope, customers can be notified with transaction details at the moment a transfer is initiated from any bank worldwide to Ziraat Katilim. As part of foreign trade advisory activities, a total of 62 customer visits were conducted in 2025, during which customers' foreign trade needs were assessed on site.
Through all these initiatives carried out within trade finance operations it is aimed to ensure that transactions are conducted in a faster, more secure, and customer-focused manner.