2020 ICC Global Survey on Trade Finance

Boosting growth, prosperity and inclusion through trade With the 10th anniversary title, “Global Trade – Securing Future Growth”, the annual publication shifts from its previous title “Rethinking Trade & Finance”, also highlighting the linkages between trade financing and the successful pursuit of international trade, now well established, to bringing back into focus trade as a driving force in global economic growth, prosperity and inclusion. An overview and executive summary of the report’s key findings - with a global context and macro view; results from the ICC Global Survey on Trade Finance 2018 and further insights into trade financing matters; regulation and compliance; digitisation and technology and transformations in sustainable trade finance; as well as a spotlight on trade, finance, and digitisation in Singapore and China.

This year’s publication is underpinned by the most comprehensive and authoritative survey on global trade finance, with views collected from 251 banks headquartered in 91 countries. But it is much more than the ICC global survey on trade finance and its analysis: it is a platform for trade and international commerce to share perspectives. The insights and views will help drive strategy, shape policy and regulation, conceive of and carry out innovative solutions. The publication aims above all contribute to trade-based growth and economic inclusion globally.

The report also touches on the major areas of Banking Commission activity, including globallyrecognised, rule-making and standard-setting, regulatory and policy advocacy, and contributions to make trade and trade financing more inclusive and sustainable. The ICC Banking Commission advocates and champions trade and trade financing at the most fundamental, transactional level and at the highest level of business and policy.

As John W.H. Denton AO, ICC’s new Secretary General, notes in his Foreword, ICC is the only private sector Observer to the UN General Assembly and a leading voice for global business across intergovernmental forums. It has long held that an inclusive and evidence-based policy process can drive global economic growth and further development goals. The ICC Global Survey is a concise demonstration of this conviction and its findings also intend to contribute to informing an international policy process to share the gains of trade more widely