ITFA Launches Latin America Regional Committee to Strengthen Regional Trade Finance

The International Trade and Forfaiting Association (ITFA) is pleased to announce the formation of the Latin America Regional Committee (LARC), marking a significant milestone in the expansion of trade finance across Latin America. The ITFA Board has officially approved the committee, underscoring the region’s growing importance within the global trade finance ecosystem. LARC will serve as a platform for fostering regional collaboration, driving innovation, and unlocking new opportunities in trade and structured finance.

The Latin America Regional Committee (LARC) is part of ITFA’s regional structure and operates under the oversight of ITFA’s Global Board. It aligns with the broader regional framework, ensuring collaboration and consistency with ITFA’s governance model. Like other regional committees, LARC functions within ITFA’s established policies and does not receive preferential treatment over other committees but plays a crucial role in expanding ITFA’s reach and engagement in Latin America.

Sean Edwards, ITFA Global Chair, emphasized the significance of this initiative:

“Latin America is a vital and growing market within the global trade finance landscape, and the establishment of LARC reflects ITFA’s dedication to expanding our reach and impact. We believe that through stronger regional collaboration and innovative financial solutions, we can help unlock the full potential of Trade Finance across Latin America.”

The newly established committee will be led by an esteemed group of industry professionals, recognized as the Founding Board Members of LARC. These leaders represent key financial institutions and organizations across the region:

• Miguel Angel Burelo – Managing Director (Cofine Trade Finance Solutions LLC)
• Jean Paul Antelo – Head GPS NBMX & Trade Finance Latam (Bank of America)
• Diego Consimo – Head of Business Development (XDC Network)
• Renato Pagani – Executive Manager (Chubb)
• Derek Hudson – Co-Founder & COO, Head of Origination (vabble ltd.)
• Martin Vasquez – SVP, Trade Finance Practice Leader (BankUnited)

The Latin America Regional Committee will play a pivotal role in advancing trade finance solutions, strengthening collaboration among financial institutions, and supporting ITFA’s strategic expansion in the region. Over the coming months, LARC will focus on setting a clear strategic agenda, organizing key industry events, and deepening relationships with local and global stakeholders.

ITFA Board Member Hernan Mayol has been appointed as Chair of the committee, providing leadership and guidance as the structure is finalized.

“We are thrilled to officially launch the Latin America Regional Committee as part of ITFA’s commitment to advancing trade finance in this dynamic region. With a strong leadership team in place, LARC will drive new opportunities, foster collaboration, and ensure its efforts are fully aligned with ITFA’s global objectives,” said Hernan Mayol.

LARC represents an exciting opportunity for trade finance professionals, financial institutions, and industry stakeholders to shape the future of trade in Latin America. ITFA looks forward to working with the new committee to accelerate growth, create value, and drive impactful change across the region.