ANZ has opened a branch in Chengdu, the economic epicentre of Sichuan Province in western China, marking the second trading outlet in a strategically important region for the bank.

The branch will offer a full range of products and services including trade and supply chain finance, cash management, markets and relationship banking services for corporate clients.

CEO Mike Smith says: “There are increasing cross-border trade and investment needs between Sichuan province, the rest of Asia and Australia. ANZ has the international capability and local knowledge to support Sichuan-based companies with their expansion across Asia Pacific.”

“As the only locally incorporated Australian bank in China, we’re in a unique position in supporting the customers in industries such as commodities, energy and agriculture,” adds Smith.

ANZ opened an operational hub in Chengdu in 2011. The city has become a trading hub for western China, attracting huge investment in infrastructure under the government’s “Go West” strategy.