OCBC, Singapore’s second-largest bank, is amplifying its efforts to harness the expanding economic ties between Greater China and Southeast Asia. This new endeavor sees the bank forming a strategic partnership with two prominent business chambers, the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCCI) and the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME). This partnership aligns with OCBC’s recently announced corporate strategy, The Next Frontier. A crucial element of this strategy is the ‘Asia Shift’, which aims to boost trade and investment flows between ASEAN and Greater China.
OCBC’s strategic alliance combines the bank’s regional banking prowess with the expansive network of the CCCME, which involves more than 10,000 Chinese enterprises, and the SCCCI’s robust business connections across Southeast Asia.
This initiative is in response to the continued expansion of Chinese companies into ASEAN markets. As per OCBC’s data, there was a 50 percent increase in 2025 in the number of new Chinese businesses the bank assisted in setting up operations in Southeast Asia. This significant rise follows a 30 percent growth in the preceding year.
The cooperation agreement stipulates the support of small to mid-sized enterprises and corporations seeking cross-border trade and investment opportunities in both regions.
The collaboration will be focused on industries predicted to fuel future growth. These include green technologies, sustainable development, digitalization, and advanced manufacturing. Additionally, the partners aim to reinforce trade and financing ecosystems that stimulate cross-border business activities.
To manage this initiative, a joint coordination group will be set up. This group will be tasked with tracking progress and ensuring the successful execution of plans.
Roy Tan, Head of Enterprise Banking International at OCBC, shared that Chinese enterprises have quickened their globalization pace in recent years, which necessitates robust on-the-ground assistance when penetrating new markets. The partnership will enable the bank to merge financing solutions with business matching and market-entry support. Tan believes this will enhance the efficiency of Chinese companies venturing into ASEAN while generating opportunities for businesses on both fronts.
Singapore is positioning itself as a primary gateway for Chinese companies seeking expansion into Southeast Asia. This strategic move also aims to allow local businesses to take advantage of the escalating intra-Asian trade and investment flows.
What is the main goal of OCBC’s new partnership with SCCCI and CCCME?
The partnership aims to capitalize on the growing economic ties between Greater China and Southeast Asia by supporting small to mid-sized enterprises and corporations seeking cross-border trade and investment opportunities.
Which sectors will the collaboration focus on?
The collaboration will focus on sectors expected to drive future growth, including green technologies, sustainable development, digitalization, and advanced manufacturing.
How does this partnership align with Singapore’s position in the global market?
The partnership aligns with Singapore’s efforts to fortify its role as a gateway for Chinese companies looking to expand into the ASEAN region, and to benefit local businesses from growing intra-Asian trade and investment flows.
