Documentary credit
Letter of Credit
A Documentary Credit (DC) is a written undertaking by a bank at the request of an importer/buyer in favour of an exporter/seller. Documentary Credit (DC) is also known as Letter of Credit (LC).
What this is
Reducing risk in international trade
Exporters have a risk in that their buyers do not pay for the goods that they have shipped. Imports have the risk that their supplier does not deliver the goods once they have paid for them.
What's hot
Simplicity
A convenient way for the importer to know that goods have been shipped before payment will be made
Convenience
The exporter is relieved of the administrative burden of collecting the proceeds, handling correspondence and any follow-up action that needs to take place. The importer is given the opportunity to prove to the exporter that payment will be made on all shipments
Security
The goods are controlled until the importer commits to pay for the shipment. The issuing bank will be responsible to ensure that the terms and conditions of the letter of credit are adhered to
Guaranteed Payment
The exporter is guaranteed payments as long as the terms and conditions of the letter of credit are complied with
Versatility
Caters for diverse commercial and financial transactions. Exporters may also avail of discounting facilities if required. Imports may look at the possibility of refinancing the letter of credit. Traders can use a transferable letter of credit to transfer all or a portion of it to their suppliers
Letter of Credit
How it works
Online
Login select 'Forex', select 'Trade' then click the menu on the left and select relevant option
Documentary credit