Japanese banks are focusing on developing lending agreements In Malaysia and Indonesia, the fastest developing economies. Southeast Asia has a large population, a developing infrastructure and a many natural resources. Moody’s, noting Indonesia’s better debt position and it’s healthy economy, has acknowledged Indonesia’s potential by raising its rating.
Therefore, Japanese banks are creating deals with local lenders and are also enlarging their offices to increase their loan business in Malaysia and Indonesia. One of Japan’s largest banks, Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, will be expanding its employees in Malaysia from about 30 to approximately 100. In addition, it expects to increase employees in Indonesia from the present level of 200.