Air8 at the ICC x HKTDC Masterclass Hong Kong: Mastering Trade Finance with Insights 

Air8 was honored to speak at the “Digital Trade Masterclass for Hong Kong SMEs,” co-organized by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the Hong Kong Trade and Development Council (HKTDC) on July 28, 2025. Erik Kwok, Head of Technology and Operations at Air8, shared valuable insights into the digital trade landscape and the capabilities of our insight-based supply chain finance platform.

This masterclass brought together specialists in digital trade, supply chains, and trading to exchange insights and enhance Hong Kong’s competitive edge by delivering value to SMEs through innovative digital trade solutions. 

Ms. Pamela Mar, Managing Director of ICC DSI, noted that by aligning its finance, trade and logistics sectors with global digital trade standards, Hong Kong can remain competitive and resilient on the world stage and is well-positioned to spearhead Asia’s digital-trade development. 

Erik Kwok, Head of Technology and Operations of Air8
 

Digital Trade Solutions for Supply Chains and SMEs 

Many small to medium-sized exporters face challenges in securing funding due to insufficient data for credit assessments, which hinders their global competitiveness. These obstacles are further exacerbated by inadequate support for risk management strategies, leaving SMEs vulnerable in a rapidly changing market. 

During the masterclass, Air8 presented a use case showcasing our insight-based supply chain finance platform and its latest innovations. With heritage from Li & Fung’s deep industry expertise in the apparel and general merchandize sectors, Air8’s platform is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of SME exporters, enabling them to access the funding they require. 

Risk Management and Efficient Working Capital Management 

The Air8 platform is quickly evolving by integrating risk management concepts and transforming complex data into actionable business intelligence that drives informed decision-making. With AI-powered accounts receivable and working capital management tools, SMEs can easily identify aging invoices and potential risks. Erik also introduced our latest innovation– Buyer Outlook, which leverages agentic AI to conduct comprehensive research on buyers worldwide. 

The masterclass provided a valuable platform for fostering an efficient business environment and enhancing Hong Kong’s international competitiveness through advocacy and innovations in the digitalization of trade documents and the insights necessary for strategic decision-making. 

Industry experts shared insights and challenges on digital transformation. (From left) Kenise Sin, Senior Data Analyst, Financial Infrastructure Department, HKMA; Jack Lee, Chief Operating Officer, GS1 Hong Kong; Bertrand Chen, Chief Executive Officer, Global Shipping Business Network; Andy Lam, Deputy Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, HKSAR Government; Prof Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC; Pamela Mar, Managing Director, ICC DSI; Ivy Tse, Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-founder, FreightAmigo; Erik Kwok, Head of Technology and Operations, Air8; and Candy Chan, Product Manager, IQAX. 

Talk to Air8 to get funded: https://air8.io/contact/