The trade world was saddened by the news of the loss of one of our own: Pradeep Taneja. Below are tributes from the global trade finance community. Submit your own tribute by email here.
Michael Byrne
Pradeep Taneja brought deep expertise, integrity, and quiet leadership to every role he held—from his decades in banking to his work with ICC rulemaking groups and, most recently, as Secretary General of ICC Bahrain.
Even after retiring from the bank, Pradeep remained active in the field, training professionals, advising institutions, and staying fully engaged in industry dialogue. He was principled and thoughtful, always willing to share his experience if it might help others or strengthen the practice of trade finance.
For me personally, the loss is profound. Pradeep and my father, Jim Byrne, shared a decades-long professional and personal friendship. Pradeep often spoke of my father’s friendship and support. And when my father needed region-specific insights or practical advice, he sought out Pradeep immediately, knowing he could trust both the depth of his knowledge and the clarity of his judgment.
Pradeep’s legacy lives on in the rules he shaped, the professionals he mentored, and the esteem he earned from colleagues worldwide. He will be deeply missed.
—Michael Byrne CEO, IIBLP and Publisher, DCW
Christopher Byrnes
Pradeep Taneja was a well-respected leader in the trade finance industry and possessed an incredible level of energy and dedication toward its advancement and the development of industry professionals.
We had met multiple times, usually in conjunction with ICC events and conferences organized by our Institute in Dubai. Pradeep was also gracious in offering his keen insights and learned experiences for the benefit of DCW readers. For one particular written work, he apologized for his perceived lack of self-restraint: “In my zeal to share as much information as came to my mind, the article has become a little longer.” That’s the type of professional he was. Always sharing if he thought it could help those on the receiving end or the industry at large.
Following his formal retirement in 2019 from Bank ABC after some 40 years in the banking business, Pradeep seemingly sped up instead of slowing down. He set up his own consultant company geared toward training for banks, corporate companies, audit firms, and regulators. For years, he was the face of ICC Bahrain, a fixture at ICC Banking Commission meetings and served as a drafting group member on rule-making initiatives ranging from URDG758 to the Uniform Rules for Forfaiting (URF800).
Even as he dealt with health concerns in recent years, Pradeep was entrusted with added responsibilities for his national committee. In September 2024, he informed me that the Board of Directors at ICC Bahrain unanimously approved him to serve as Secretary General for ICC Bahrain. “It’s challenging but nevertheless quite interesting and satisfying in its own right as it confers some additional responsibilities in addition to my role as Chairman of ICC Bahrain Trade Finance Forum and as a Consultant post-retirement”, said Pradeep in an email.
On another occasion, Pradeep expressed thanks to our Institute, and especially IIBLP Founder Professor James E. Byrne, for the long-standing professional and personal relationship of more than 20 years. “Jim had offered me help (without even my solicitation) when I was having a very difficult phase of my career”, said Pradeep. “I can never ever forget that kindness and I felt so indebted for his gesture.”
— Christopher Byrnes Institute of International Banking Law & Practice
Deepesh Patel
I’m devastated to hear about the passing of our dearest Pradeep Taneja over the weekend. He was a mentor, advisor, and fatherly figure to me.
Pradeep was an advocate of the URDG and UCP rules, my go to person for all things LCs, DCs and guarantees. We shared countless calls, often diving deep into specific court rulings, sometimes well into the night. He never once refused a call, and gave his time so generously. Alongside the seriousness of his expertise, we had many laughs, and he had a warmth that made even the most geekiest discussions such a joy.
He was deeply proud of his children and often spoke of his family with such love and admiration. That pride was palpable in every conversation.
I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to spend many hours with him, whilst he imparted his wisdom and knowledge, to share with the world, through many interviews, articles and guides.
But he leaves with such a positive legacy, and some very happy memories.
My condolences to his family, who he always spoke so highly of, and loved ones. Rest in peace, Pradeep, my friend.
— Deepesh Patel Editor, Trade Treasury Payments
Dave Meynell
Pradeep was more than a colleague, he was a dear friend, a trusted co-author, and one of the finest professionals I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. He embodied the very best qualities of our field, depth of knowledge, clarity of thought, and a steadfast commitment to principled practice.
He brought intellect and integrity to every discussion, always guided by a quiet sense of purpose and an unwavering respect for others.
Over the course of his career, Pradeep’s involvement in the development of ICC rules, whether through drafting, consultation, or advocacy, was characterised by rigour, thoughtfulness, and a deep understanding of needs.
To those of us who worked closely with him, he was a model of professionalism, measured, generous with his time, and unfailingly courteous.
Above all, Pradeep was a gentleman in the truest sense, kind, dignified, and deeply respected by peers around the world. I will miss him greatly.
— Dave Meynell Senior Technical Advisor to the ICC Banking Commission
Don Smith
The world and the banking industry has lost another gentleman and expert in trade finance. I first met Pradeep after an ICC Banking Commission meeting when he was walking by himself on the sidewalk and I increased my walking speed to join him and we swapped introductions. I was impressed by his significant background – which I had to ask for – and he did not brag about himself, just responded to my questions. I began looking for him at the meetings and was further impressed by his depth as well as wide knowledge in many areas of trade.
We were both members of the URDG drafting group and I was delighted to have him as a member of the Uniform Rules for Forfaiting drafting effort. He took participation in these projects seriously, contributing when he had something to say based on his personal experiences. Again, Pradeep was consistent in speaking when he had something to contribute, not just to insert himself into a discussion.
Further, Pradeep was always a perfect gentleman and especially when it was necessary to contribute another possible view on discussions which were not moving forward smoothly, based again on his personal experience at various banks and countries. That led to our exchanging of views privately with each other when reviewing a draft ICC Opinion or proposed draft language for an ICC Rule, etc. When we viewed a draft, we were careful to include what laws or court cases we knew of. It was always an interesting discussion.
— Don Smith Retired, Citibank NY Former Head of Banking Committee of USCIB (ICC-USA)
Zahoor Dattu
A great loss to the trade finance community. One of the most knowledgeable and finest people I have ever met. I have known him for 40 years and we often met in some conferences in Dubai, UAE. His contributions to the trade finance community will always be remembered. RIP Pradeep Taneja
— Zahoor Dattu Banker, Middle East-based until 2019
Tat Yeen Yap
Pradeep was an elder-statesman in the world of trade finance. He was secretary-general of ICC Bahrain since last year, and before that, chair of its Trade Finance Forum for two decades. We were colleagues at ABN AMRO but I got to know him only later. We worked together as DOCDEX experts on a case, with him as president. We last spoke on the phone in April 2024 - he was prepping for a digital trade finance event and wanted my thoughts. It was in that call that he told me that he had been appointed secretary general of ICC Bahrain, before it was publicly announced. Pradeep would send me messages in private on some open debates on trade finance matters. I was looking forward to meeting him in Singapore, a trip he had said he would make with his wife. His passing leaves a gap for me personally, and no doubt for the industry.
— Tat Yeen Yap Singapore
Abdurrahman Özalp
Dear Pradeep, a trade finance guru, was a friend of mine. We would greet each other and chat at every ICC Banking Commission meeting. We served together on the URDG and Guarantees Task Force. I will never forget that smiling face of his at every ICC meeting. He has passed on to eternity, but his spirit and memory will always be with us and within us.
— Abdurrahman Özalp Chair of ICC Türkiye Banking Commission
Khalil Matar
Pradeep, who sadly passed away July 18, was an extraordinary professional and an even kinder human being. His passing is both a personal loss and a significant one to the global trade finance community, where his wisdom, humility, and technical mastery touched so many lives during his more than 40 years in the field.
I first met Pradeep around 2002 in Dubai at the IIBLP’s Annual Survey of LC Law and Practice conference. I immediately admired his vast knowledge and balanced views, and I was struck by how modest he was despite his stature in the profession. That first meeting was the start of a cherished friendship and collegial relationship that lasted more than 20 years, during which I benefited greatly from his insights and network.
Pradeep had a way of staying calm despite turmoil, a quality that made him an anchor for those around him. He contributed tirelessly to advancing trade finance knowledge through his ICC work, conferences, and other initiatives. Many of us are better professionals because of his generosity in sharing what he knew.
Going forward, when I face a letter of credit difference in opinion, I will ask myself, “What would Pradeep think?” That question is a testament to the deep respect I, and so many others, have for his expertise.
We pledge to pass on the wisdom that formed the foundation of his work.
My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.
— Khalil Matar Alinma Bank, Saudi Arabia
Isaac Tudu
I had known of Pradeep Taneja for over 15 years, but it was only in May 2024 at the ICC UAE GTFS event in Dubai that I finally had the privilege of meeting him in person.
Seeing him standing in the lobby, I approached him, and to my surprise, it felt like reuniting with an old friend rather than a first meeting. He welcomed me with such warmth and sincerity that any hesitation I had simply melted away. When I asked about his incredible journey, he humbly shared stories of his early days in banking and how he rose to the pinnacle of trade finance at ICC Bahrain. For nearly an hour, I listened intently, captivated by his wisdom and the passion with which he spoke. Later on, we were continuously in touch over WhatsApp messages.
He was more than just an expert in LCs, BGs, and SBLCs — he was a true inspiration. His knowledge was vast, yet he carried it with such humility. His sudden passing has left a void, not just to his dear ones, but in the entire trade finance community. His generosity and wisdom touched countless lives, and I will forever cherish the lessons he shared.
Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in those he inspired. RIP Pradeep. Your memory will continue to light our way.
— Isaac Tudu Tudu Financial Services, India
Glenn Ransier
Pradeep was a true gentleman and scholar on trade. I have the please of working with him on the URDG 758 revision. Between URDG and the Forfaiting rules and the various education materials he provided, he will be remembered for his significant contributions to the trade finance industry. Pradeep had many thought provoking comments and excellent insights. Beyond his professional accomplishments, I always found Pradeep to be a very kind person an a considered thinker. I am very saddened to hear of his untimely passing and my heart goes out to this family.
— Glenn Ransier Principal Product Manager, GRT Execution & Implementation
Sachin Parker
Mr. Pradeep Taneja had a distinguished career in trade finance, marked by his expertise, leadership, and contributions to the industry. As a seasoned professional, he played a significant role in shaping the trade finance landscape in Bahrain and beyond.
With his extensive experience in trade finance, Mr. Taneja demonstrated a deep understanding of the complex dynamics of international trade, finance, and risk management. His expertise spanned various areas.
He had in-depth knowledge of trade finance instruments, such as letters of credit, guarantees, and factoring.
Mr. Taneja was adept at identifying and mitigating risks associated with trade finance, ensuring that transactions were secure and compliant with regulatory requirements.
He fostered strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and industry stakeholders, built on trust, integrity, and mutual respect.
Contribution to ICC Bahrain
As a respected member of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Bahrain, Mr. Taneja made significant contributions to the organization's efforts in promoting trade finance best practices, education, and advocacy. His involvement with ICC Bahrain helped in raising awareness about the importance of trade finance in facilitating international trade and economic growth.
He contributed to the development of industry standards and guidelines for trade finance, ensuring that Bahrain's trade finance community remained aligned with global best practices.
Mr. Taneja's leadership and networking skills helped foster collaboration between ICC Bahrain, financial institutions, and other stakeholders, promoting a more efficient and effective trade finance ecosystem.
Mr. Pradeep Taneja's legacy in the trade finance world will be remembered for his dedication, expertise, and passion for promoting best practices and education. His contributions to ICC Bahrain and the broader trade finance community will continue to inspire future generations of professionals.
Lost a great buddy, we worked together for shorter time in ABN Amro.
Sad n god may play his soul in peace.
Amen🙏🙏
— Sachin Parker
Abdulkader Bazara
In Memory of a Remarkable Colleague and Friend: It is with deep sorrow that I share my condolences on the passing of Pradeep Taneja. I first met him in Dubai during the inaugural IBLP seminar in the region — a moment that marked the beginning of a professional relationship and friendship that spanned over several years.
Throughout the years, we attended numerous trade finance seminars and served together as panelists, exchanging ideas and insights that shaped our shared understanding of the field. I was also honored to work alongside him as a DocDex expert, where he led the case with his signature clarity, fairness, and depth of expertise.
His humility, integrity, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working with him.
May his legacy continue to guide and inspire us. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of loss.
With heartfelt sympathy,
— Abdulkader Bazara
Want to add a note to our living memoriam to Pradeep? Please email to info@doccredit.world
Michael is the CEO of IIBLP and the Publisher of DCW. Michael has over 25 years of professional experience including 15 in trade finance and compliance, and has written and spoken extensively.
