OCBC, Bank of Ningbo Extend Alliance for 10 Years Amid Trade Growth
The Singaporean lender, a 20% shareholder in Bank of Ningbo, will continue a US$5 million training grant to support cross-border business between ASEAN and Greater China.
Partnership Extension and Training Grant
OCBC Bank has extended its strategic alliance with China's Bank of Ningbo for another decade. The agreement, signed by OCBC Group CEO Tan Teck Long and Bank of Ningbo President Feng Peijiong in Ningbo, deepens a collaboration that began in 2006. As part of the renewed partnership, OCBC will continue a US$5 million training grant.
This funding supports staff development, knowledge exchange, secondments, and leadership programmes for employees from both institutions; over 1,000 have participated to date.
Expanding China-ASEAN Trade
The extended alliance aims to develop greater cooperation across ASEAN and Greater China. OCBC reported a 50% rise in new Chinese companies establishing operations in ASEAN during 2025, reaching a record level. This growth reflects the broader economic ties between the regions; China has remained ASEAN's largest trading partner since 2009. Bilateral trade between China and ASEAN exceeded US$1 trillion for the first time in 2025.
Bank of Ningbo's Market Position
Bank of Ningbo, where OCBC holds a 20% stake, is one of China's 21 domestic systemically important banks. It also held the position of China's largest city commercial bank by market capitalisation as of 11 September 2026. The bank announced a net profit of RMB16.6 billion for the first half of 2026, marking a 12% increase compared to the previous year.
OCBC first invested in Ningbo Commercial Bank with a 12.2% stake in 2006, increasing its holding to the maximum permitted 20% in 2014 after the bank was renamed in 2007.
This renewed commitment between OCBC and Bank of Ningbo shows continued confidence in the growth path of China-ASEAN trade and investment flows. The US$5 million training grant directly supports the human capital required for expanding cross-border operations, potentially easing talent integration for companies operating between the two regions.
For investors, the alliance reinforces OCBC's strategic positioning within China's financial sector and its exposure to the growing trade corridor, benefiting from Bank of Ningbo's strong domestic performance and market presence.
This article is journalism, not investment advice; consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions. Market data is indicative, may be delayed, and should be verified with your broker or exchange before use.
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