The concepts and language associated with international trade can, at times, be quite complex and difficult to understand. And insufficient knowledge can compound the already present risks to an even higher level. What is DA/DP? What are incoterms? What is a Letter of Credit? How is a Charter Party BL different from a regular Bill of Lading? This book tries to cover these basics, and more such, in a simple and easy to understand manner, with illustrations and process flows. Starting from explaining the various risks in an international trade transaction, the book goes on to cover documentation, incoterms, and the different types of trade transactions – Collections, Open Account and Letters of Credits.In the chapter devoted to Letters of Credits, the author uses real-life illustrations and a sample LC to explain the roles of the various parties, and the processes associated with issuance and settlement of a Letter of Credit. The various clauses and their importance are explained in a very lucid manner. Apart from these, the book also covers Bank Guarantees, trade finance products available for exporters and importers in India, and also explains how pricing is derived for trade transactions. A few articles at the end on Charter Party Bill of Lading, Marine Cargo Insurance and Trade Credits throw additional light on the said topics. The author has drawn on his experience as a senior trade practitioner at various banks in India, to deliver a very crisp and clear explanation of the underlying concepts of trade transactions. The simple language and the real-life illustrations make this an essential guide to anyone who wishes to understand the world of International Trade, a little better. About the authorAn alumnus of IIM – Lucknow (1998-2000), Abin is a career transaction banker, with close to 15 years of experience in corporate and transaction banking, at various private sector and MNC banks in India. During his career with organisations such as Bank of America, HSBC, Yes Bank and Standard Chartered, he has built a reputation as an accomplished FEMA and trade expert. He has handled policy level discussions and investigative interactions with various regulatory and investigative agencies, which have helped him gain deep insights into the regulatory policy underlying international trade in India. As an independent consultant, Abin now advises businesses on managing the regulatory compliance activities associated with cross-border transactions – both current account and capital account.As a corporate trainer and knowledge partner with various industry associations he also conducts seminars and workshops on topics related to finance and international trade. He also writes regularly on macro-economic events, and on topics related to trade. Abin is based in Chennai and can be reached at abindaya@gmail.com.