One of the largest banks in Singapore and Malaysia has set up a trade finance academy with the aim of helping its customers' staff better utilise the range of trade finance options available.

The OCBC Trade Finance Academy operated by OCBC Malaysia will initially focus on providing letter of credit (L/C) training for exporters.

Modular course

The bank will be offering a two-day course comprising six modules on L/Cs for exporters.

The academy will look at other aspects of trade finance, such as the use of treasury solutions, in courses to be arranged later.

SME focus

The courses aim to educate customers on the latest technical and practical skills required to make the most out of trade finance. They are particularly geared towards staff in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The bank reckons that staff in SMEs participating in the OCBC Trade Finance Academy courses could provide their employers with operating cost savings and improved cash flow.

This article represents the views of the author and not necessarily those of the ICC or any of the other partners in DC-PRO.