Vision Bank backs SMEs in cross-border trade

Vision Bank has launched a short-term trade finance service for SMEs involved in cross-border trade, targeting businesses in markets including the GCC, India and Southeast Asia. The Abu Dhabi-based bank will work with fintechs and trade finance platforms to provide working capital linked to real trade transactions.

The service could help SMEs manage cash flow while buying, moving and selling goods across borders. Easier access to short-term finance can support import and export activity and help businesses meet costs across their supply chains, including freight, distribution and other logistics services.

Vision Bank will assess the trade transaction, counterparties and related credit risk before providing finance. The platform-based model is designed to link funding with actual commercial activity rather than relying only on traditional lending criteria.

“SMEs are increasingly operating across borders, platforms and supply chains, but access to short-term trade finance has not always kept pace,” said Jeremy Parrish, Chairman, Vision Bank.

The bank plans to expand its network of fintech and trade finance platforms as the service develops. For logistics providers, stronger SME access to working capital could support more consistent trade flows and demand for cross-border movement of goods.