HSBC has strengthened its relationship with the Malta Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise through a gold partner support agreement to collaborate on projects that benefit the business community, the bank said.

Funds from the HSBC support agreement will be used to set up a trade and international affairs desk at the chamber with the aim of promoting external trade and investment.

The project seeks to help member companies in internationalising their business operations by assisting them to tap new markets for products and services, invest overseas and find international trade or investment partners.

While focusing on specific regional markets, the chamber will provide market research information.

The chamber intends to assist in the organisation of export promotion activities and trade exhibitions and offer specialised training and mentoring.

A trade, investment and internationalisation manager has just been recruited to spearhead these services which will be offered in collaboration with the bank.

The agreement, which is renewable after three years, was signed by chamber president Victor Galea and Shaun Wallis, CEO HSBC Malta.