Overseas-Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC) and the Australian High Commission in Singapore have recently launched a five-year strategic alliance aimed at fortifying trade and investment flow between Australia and Southeast Asia. The partnership is designed to considerably boost these economic currents by 2030, with OCBC setting their sights on a surge of over 200%.
The strategic partnership aligns with Australia’s ambitious Southeast Asia Economic Strategy towards 2040, known as ‘Invested’. The focus of the collaboration will be on pivotal sectors such as energy transition, infrastructure, green transportation, fintech, and digital innovation.
The cooperation brings together OCBC’s robust regional banking network and formidable financing ability, alongside the policy know-how of the Australian government. It also encompasses collaboration with various Australian departments including External Affairs and Trade, Export Finance and the Australian Trade and Investment Commission. This synergistic effort aims to pave the way for Australian companies to grasp lucrative opportunities sprouting across Southeast Asia.
Celebrating its 40th anniversary of operation in Australia this year, OCBC reported significant growth in its Sydney branch in recent times. The surge in growth can be attributed to thriving sectors such as real estate, energy, utilities, and digital infrastructure.
Elaine Lam, Head of Global Corporate Banking at OCBC, expressed that the strategic collaboration is set to form a potent platform for Australian enterprises and investors looking to spread their wings into Southeast Asia. She identified burgeoning opportunities in the region, particularly in energy transition, infrastructure development, and green transportation.
Notably, big Australian players like Lendlease and Qantas are among the companies supported by OCBC. The bank has recently provided backing for Qantas’ fleet renewal financing programme and has also lent support to several Lendlease developments situated in Singapore, Sydney, and Kuala Lumpur.
What is the goal of the strategic partnership between OCBC and the Australian High Commission in Singapore?
The partnership aims to substantially enhance trade and investment flows between Australia and Southeast Asia by 2030.
What sectors will the cooperation focus on?
Key sectors encompass energy transition, infrastructure, green transportation, fintech, and digital innovation.
Which Australian companies are currently supported by OCBC?
OCBC is currently backing major Australian companies such as Lendlease and Qantas.
