AICB, ICC Academy Launch Certified Trade Finance Qualification To Strengthen Malaysia’s Talent Pipeline
KUALA LUMPUR, July 31 (Bernama) -- The Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers (AICB) in collaboration with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Academy has officially launched the Certified Trade Finance Professional (CTFP) programme in Malaysia, expanding access to an internationally recognised qualification for professionals supporting cross-border trade.
In a statement, AICB said the CTFP programme is a globally recognised credential that demonstrates broad trade finance expertise and strengthens stakeholder confidence, with over 1,200 graduates already part of its international alumni network.
“The launch comes as Malaysia’s total trade reached a record RM3.1 trillion in 2025, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia. Globally, the Asian Development Bank estimates that the trade finance gap remained at US$2.5 trillion in 2025, equivalent to about 10 per cent of total global trade.
“Together, these figures underline the need for professionals who can structure appropriate financing, manage increasingly complex risks and help businesses participate confidently in international markets,” it said.
AICB said the collaboration combines the institute’s role in advancing professional standards for Malaysia’s banking sector with ICC Academy’s international trade finance expertise.
This collaboration supports AICB’s broader commitment to building a trusted, competent and future-ready banking workforce through lifelong learning, professional excellence and ethical leadership in Malaysia and the region, it said.
AICB chief executive Edward Ling said the collaboration gives professionals in Malaysia a clear pathway to strengthen their professional credibility and support the evolving needs of businesses engaged in cross-border trade.
“Malaysia’s record trade performance reinforces the importance of a strong and future-ready trade finance profession.
“As supply chains, regulation, technology and financial crime risks become more complex, technical knowledge must be matched by commercial judgement, digital fluency and the ability to apply international standards in practice,” he said.
Meanwhile, ICC Academy global head Christine Lim said the collaboration comes at a timely moment as global trade becomes increasingly interconnected, creating a growing need for professionals who can confidently apply international standards in real-world business settings.
“We are delighted to partner with AICB to expand access to the CTFP programme in Malaysia and, together, support the development of talent that will strengthen the country’s trade finance ecosystem,” she added.
-- BERNAMA