When it came to ICBC's online loan service, the executive of a Beijing company engaged in new materials (a typical company merging high-tech products into conventional industry involved in the research and production of new generation bamboo fibers) was deeply impressed. Despite a small-and-medium enterprise, this company owns the only bamboo fiber patent in the market and the best production technology in high-purity bamboo fibers. When contact with the company's officer-in-charge, ICBC staff learnt that the company was in need of urgent funds for its fast expansion. Just like other small enterprises, the company needed "short-term, small, urgent, frequent" working capital. After understanding the requirement, ICBC staff recommended "Online Loan Link" service to the company. ICBC approved the loan in a short period of time once application documentation was received from the company. In the end, ICBC released an "Online Loan Link" loan of RMB 28 million for the company's production.

"In the past, each time in need of funding we have to submit application documentation to the bank and go through tedious procedures. After using Online Loan Link service, I only need to insert USB-Shield into a computer wherever I can online, then enter the amount to be drawn and the date. I do not need to go to the bank, easy and safe". The executive with the company said.

Online Loan Link is an innovative product launched by ICBC leveraging the Bank's strong online banking system. Borrowers can draw loan revolvingly online anytime, anywhere, whenever in need of working capital. In Online Loan Link service, no interest is calculated for unused loan limit, company can repay loan in advance to relieve financial burden. As related by ICBC, more new products will be coming soon such as online supply chain finance, online merchandize finance to cater the funding needs of SMEs. At the end of 2011, RMB 4.23 billion of "Online Loan Link" loans had provided strong support to all the SMEs including those engaged in advanced manufacturing.