PHOTO: BANK ASIA

STAR BUSINESS DESK

Bank Asia PLC has been honoured with the “Best GTFP Issuing Bank in South Asia” award by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in recognition of its excellence in facilitating international trade.

The global recognition places Bank Asia alongside leading international financial institutions such as Standard Chartered Bank and Deutsche Bank, underscoring the award’s significance and competitive stature, according to a press release.

Nathalie Louat, global director of trade and supply chain finance at IFC, presented the award to Sohail RK Hussain, managing director of Bank Asia PLC, at an award ceremony held in Lisbon, Portugal on March 26.

Conferred under IFC’s Global Trade Finance Program (GTFP), the award recognises partner banks that demonstrate strong collaboration with IFC, excellence in supporting cross-border trade -- particularly in challenging markets -- and a commitment to responsible and sustainable financing practices, including the promotion of environmentally responsible (green) trade initiatives.

This recognition reflects Bank Asia’s industry leadership, operational excellence, and its significant contribution to regional economic growth and global trade connectivity, the release added.

Akintunde Ogunmodede, regional lead of trade and supply chain finance for Asia and the Pacific at IFC, and Md Zia Arfin, senior executive vice-president and head of the international division of Bank Asia PLC, along with other senior officials and representatives from both organisations, were also present.