Trade Services

Import Services
Whatever your sourcing requirements, HSBC Trade Services is well positioned to help your business fulfill its import needs. We offer a full spectrum of import services and our experienced staff are available to ensure your business is handled without delay.

Documentary Credits
Documentary Credits (DCs) are the cornerstone of international trade. When issued by HSBC, DCs provide comfort and security to both the buyer and seller by helping to mitigate the inherent risks.

A DC is an undertaking by a bank, acting on behalf of the importer, to make payment for goods or services provided by the supplier within a prescribed time limit and against compliant documents. It provides comfort to the buyer that payment will only be made upon presentation of the required documents provided that the terms and conditions are complied with.

When issuing DCs through HSBC you will enjoy the following benefits:

1. Detailed advice on a range of instruments such as standby and revolving DCs, and red clause credits.
2. Comprehensive guidance on the DC terms and conditions.
3. Access to HSBC's vast global expertise and resources.
   
   Easy electronic applications: simply send your approved DC applications via our global electronic banking service, enabling your to reduce courier fees and avoid delays.
   DC financing: a usance DC issued through HSBC offers convenience. It only has to be paid after a fixed time period, either after shipment or after receipt of the relevant documents.
   

Import financing
HSBC can help you maximise the cash flow of your import business through a range of specialised import financing solutions.

Loans against imports: import loans are secured by a trust receipt, enabling you to finance collections and DCs. Goods are assigned to the bank.
Shipping guarantees: if your goods arrive before your documents are presented, HSBC can issue a shipping guarantee to the shipping company, undertaking to forward the title documents, eg bills of lading, once received. You then have immediate access to your goods and avoid expensive storage fees and demurrage charges.