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Legal Entity Identifiers (LEIs) in Supply Chain and International Trade

In international trade, where goods, services, and capital move across borders, the ability to clearly and reliably identify counterparties is critical. Legal Entity Identifiers (LEIs) provide a globally standardised ID for legal entities—enabling transparency, compliance, and digital trust across every stage of the supply chain.

From shipping and logistics to letters of credit and customs declarations, LEIs reduce ambiguity, streamline onboarding, and simplify verification.

Digital identity in the supply chain allows for efficient processing of documents, such as Electronic Bill of Lading (eBL), reconciliation of good and entities across regulatory jurisdictions which utilise a separate set of identifiers and regulations.

Operating in a system with entities which are verified is essential for global trade. Traditionally national siloed identifier system can cause disharmony amongst stakeholders. The value of the LEI in cross border trade is outlined in the 2024 report conducted by GLEIF and the ICC. https://iccwbo.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Scaling-the-use-of-digital-identities-in-trade.pdf

“Legal Entity Identifiers (LEIs) are the global identity framework for cross-border trade and a foundation on which to deliver a cheaper, faster, simpler, more sustainable and secure trading system”.

The International Chamber of Commerce

Trusted By Global Suppliers

Apex Group
Coinbase
JP Morgan
Ing
Amex
Binance
Ripple
HSBC
Tether
Blackstone
Accenture
Lantham & Watkins
Unibanco
BDO
UBS
Willis Towers Watson (WTW)
Santander

Why LEIs Matter in Global Supply Chains

Whether you’re a manufacturer, freight forwarder, customs agent, or financier, your business may need an LEI in the following scenarios:

  • Import/export transactions involving financial institutions or customs authorities
  • Supply chain finance (e.g. factoring, receivables, trade credit)
  • Digital trade platforms requiring verified counterparties
  • Sanctions screening & AML/KYC in cross-border payment processes
  • Contracting with governments or multinationals who require LEI validation
  • Participation in sustainability and ESG reporting frameworks
 
LEIs create a common language for identifying businesses, particularly in cross-border dealings involving multiple jurisdictions and regulatory frameworks.

Who Needs an LEI in Trade and Logistics?

 

You may be required to obtain or use an LEI if your company is involved in:

  • Importing/exporting goods and materials
  • International shipping or freight forwarding
  • Supplying to or contracting with government or regulated industries
  • Applying for trade finance or letters of credit
  • Participating in blockchain-based or digital trade platforms
  • Operating in regions implementing digital customs or e-documents (e.g. EU, India, UAE)

 

LEIs are increasingly used in customs declarations, financial messaging (ISO 20022), and smart contracts on supply chain platforms.

Who Needs an LEI in Trade and Logistics?

You may be required to obtain or use an LEI if your company is involved in:

LEIs are increasingly used in customs declarations, financial messaging (ISO 20022), and smart contracts on supply chain platforms.

Real-World Applications

Digital Trade Platforms

LEIs streamline onboarding and trust betweenparties

Blockchain in Logistics

Used to validate legal entities on decentralised trade ecosystems

Customs and Border Control

Countries like India mandate LEIs for certain import/export operations

Trade Finance

Banks use LEIs to assess risk and screen 

suppliers

LEIs and the Push for Transparency

Governments and international organisations are pushing for better entity traceability in supply chains to fight:

  • Illicit trade and fraud
  • Terrorist financing
  • Human rights abuses in supplier networks
  • Environmental and ESG violations

The LEI helps establish a verified chain of ownership and accountability—from manufacturers to end buyers.

How to Get an LEI for Your Trade Business

1

Fast LEI registration for importers, exporters, and logistics firms

2

Bulk LEI solutions for multi-entity organisations

3

Tools to monitor LEI status and expiry

4

API or iFrame integration for digital trade portals

Whether you’re a trading company, customs agent, or supply chain platform, we can help you integrate LEIs into your compliance and operational workflows.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re preparing for customs clearance, trade finance, or digital supply chain integration—start by securing your Legal Entity Identifier. Let me know if you want a version tailored to a specific region (e.g. UAE, EU, India), or industry (e.g. agriculture, energy, manufacturing).

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