Trade Treasury Payments · 2026-08-05 · 12 min
In this episode, we explore how SMBC is reshaping trade finance in an era defined by geopolitical tension, supply chain disruption, and shifting corporate priorities. Mitsuhiro Kawamura, Global Head of Trade Finance at SMBC, shares how the bank’s global footprint is strengthened by regional nuance, from balance sheet optimisation in developed markets to foundational funding and risk mitigation in emerging economies. As he notes, “Customers’ financing needs are quite different by region,” a theme that runs through SMBC’s approach to partnership, liquidity, and structured support. Kawamura also reflects on the bank’s role in the energy transition, where supply chain and receivables finance are helping project companies navigate capital‑intensive construction phases. He explains how SMBC’s end‑to‑end view of trade flows enables treasurers to build resilience amid geopolitical uncertainty, while digitalisation opens the door to new client segments. With SMBC recognised as the Best Trade Finance Bank globally and in Latin America, this conversation captures how innovation, collaboration, and local intelligence are shaping the future of trade finance.
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