Xiamen: The “bridge” that started at the Xiamen Special Economic Zone has marked a 40-year chronicle of growth for Xiamen International Bank. Established in 1985, the bank has played a pivotal role in linking Xiamen to international financial markets, taking root in the Special Economic Zone, expanding across China, and building connections worldwide.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Xiamen International Bank’s journey began in the early days of reform and opening-up, actively participating in and witnessing China’s financial opening-up. In its formative years, the bank supported the construction of the Special Economic Zone and facilitated the influx of international capital. Notably, in 1986, it served as the issuing agent for the first phase of bonds for the Xiamen Bridge, introducing a new financing model in China. This model combined state investment with locally issued bonds, attracting subscriptions from Hong Kong, Macao, and local residents, thus funding Xiamen’s cross-island development.

The bank also leveraged expertise from Hong Kong and Macao banks to become one of the first in China to offer housing mortgage loans. Moreover, at a time when direct cross-strait clearing was not yet established, Xiamen International Bank opened a remittance channel via the United States, enabling telegraphic transfers from Taiwan to be credited within two days, further exemplifying its role as a financial bridge.