Trade Finance Guidance
Facilities that help your business manage domestic and international trade transactions.
Overview
Trade finance covers a range of instruments that facilitate trade — including letters of credit, bank guarantees, and supply chain financing. These tools help manage payment risk and improve cash flow.
Key considerations
- Business with trade transactions
- Banking relationship
- GST and trade documentation
- Acceptable credit profile
Typical eligibility
These are indicative criteria. Actual requirements vary by lender.
- Business with trade transactions
- Banking relationship
- GST and trade documentation
- Acceptable credit profile
Typical documents
Document requirements vary by lender and loan type.
- Business registration
- GST returns
- Bank statements
- Trade-related documents (invoices, contracts)
- Import/export code if applicable
Frequently asked questions
What is trade finance?
Trade finance refers to instruments and facilities that support trade transactions — including LCs, bank guarantees, and supply chain financing.
Do I need an import/export code?
For international trade, an IEC is typically required. Domestic trade finance may not require one.
Your next step
Ready to explore Trade Finance?
Share your requirement and a SMFINCARE financing specialist will help you understand what to prepare.
This assessment is indicative and educational. It does not constitute a sanction, approval, credit decision or guarantee. Final eligibility, interest rate, loan amount, documentation and disbursement are determined by the relevant lender according to its policies and applicable law.