DBS and the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) have signed a MOU to boost trade and investment between Australia and Southeast Asia.
Announced alongside the 10th anniversary of DBS’ Sydney branch, the agreement is the first between Austrade and a Singapore-based bank.
It supports Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 and aims to help Australian companies expand into key markets including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam.
Under the MOU, DBS and Austrade will offer market insights, regulatory guidance, and connect Australian companies with regional partners and industry leaders to unlock commercial opportunities.
DBS may also provide advisory support on market entry strategies, financial planning, and risk management where appropriate.
An investor roundtable is scheduled to be held in Sydney in the third quarter of 2025.
DBS established its Australian operations in 2015 to connect clients across Asia and Australia.
Over the years, the bank has supported inbound investment in real estate, renewables and digital infrastructure, while also helping Australian businesses expand across the region.
In comments reported by The Straits Times, Tan Su Shan said DBS’ Australian lending book is currently valued at around A$11 billion and could potentially double to A$20 billion over the next five years.
Dr Paul Grimes, Chief Executive Officer, Austrade said,
“Southeast Asia’s expanding middle class, rapid urbanisation and growing demand for digital and sustainable development are reshaping the region’s economic landscape. Supply chains are being remapped and trade routes re-written.
These trends present compelling opportunities for Australian businesses. Through this collaboration, Austrade and DBS will combine expertise to provide timely, practical support to help them seize this enormous potential.”
Tan Su Shan, Chief Executive Officer, DBS said,
“Looking ahead, the bank will continue to dial up support for customers in key growth sectors such as technology, renewables, energy and infrastructure. We will also continue to support the growth of financial institutions including superannuation funds.
The MOU with Austrade reaffirms our belief in the potential of Australia-Southeast Asia connectivity and enables us to deliver on our shared ambition to drive meaningful impact across the region.”
