Lloyds Banking Group announces £2bn of trade finance to support SMEs trade abroad and expand into international markets
Lloyds has reaffirmed its commitment to backing British businesses, announcing that it will make up to £2bn of trade finance available to support growth for SMEs and mid-corporate exporters, allowing them to invest, scale and expand into international markets.
This forms part of Lloyds Banking Group’s plan to make over £35bn of new finance available to companies operating and investing across the UK in 2026. The £2bn trade finance pledge includes lending via UK Export Finance (UKEF) backed facilities, as part of the Government’s £11bn package to help UK firms compete and grow in international markets.
Backing SMEs and mid corporates across the UK
This trade finance commitment, along with our International Trade Portal, will support SMEs – the backbone of the UK economy – while also equipping mid corporate clients with the working capital and trade solutions they need to invest in productivity, supply chains and export growth.
Helping Britain Prosper
By continuing to provide access to new finance and by supporting the UK’s exporter base, Lloyds is helping to stimulate regional investment, create jobs and drive sustainable growth. Helping businesses thrive and supporting their growth ambitions creates opportunities in regions and communities across the UK, and achieving it requires a clear and committed strategy.
Paul Kempster, managing director, Commercial Banking Coverage, Lloyds Banking Group, said: “Working alongside UKEF demonstrates how banks and government can come together to unlock the full potential of UK businesses to help them compete and win on the global stage. This dedicated trade finance support will enable more firms to seek new export opportunities, scale internationally and drive investment and jobs back into the UK.”