SBI's presence in the African continent, apart from South Africa, extends to joint venture banks in Mauritius and Nigeria as well as a representative office in Cairo, Egypt and Angola. The increasing trade between South Africa and India, excellent political equations between the two governments and expanding potential for economic ties provided the necessary impetus for establishment of our presence in South Africa. The Johannesburg branch of SBI was established in March 1997. In our ongoing endeavor to reach out to more clients, we have also established marketing offices in Durban and Cape Town.

SBI perceives its role as a facilitator between the business community in South Africa and India and as a Banking intermediary between the banks in India and the trade community in South Africa. While India-related business does constitute a thrust area of activity, SBI in South Africa is active in Corporate Finance, International Trade, Project Finance, Remittances and Correspondent Banking. The Bank/Branch is manned by a team of skilled and experienced managers from India coupled with the talent of knowledgeable and experienced local personnel. Modern infrastructure facilities are in place and the branch functions in a totally computerised work environment.

SBI is equipped with state-of-the-art Reuters system for online market information and Reuters 3000 Dealing System for efficient money / forex market operations as also the SWIFT global communication system to facilitate speedy and accurate transmission of forex remittances, both inward and outward, and prompt local inter-bank settlements. SBI is also one of the participating banks in the National Payment System - SAMOS - introduced by the South African Reserve Bank.

The huge network of domestic branches in India, presence in all major international financial centers and agency arrangements with correspondent banks in many countries add depth and breadth to the geographical reach of SBI and ensures operating efficiency particularly in international trade services.