Chinese banking giant seeking to enter Greek market

The world's biggest lender, the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), is poised to receive a license to operate in Greece, with sources telling Kathimerini that negotiations are already at an advanced stage.

ICBC representatives have already held talks with officials at the Economy and Development Ministry, as well as taking the necessary steps with the Bank of Greece so that the bank can apply for a license as soon as possible, the sources said.

The focus of ICBC's interest will be investments in banking, industry and infrastructure, which are its areas of expertise, while it is also said to be interested in funding large investment projects and not necessarily those of Chinese companies and groups that already have a presence in Greece.

ICBC is already active in the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Poland, Belgium, Italy, Spain and Great Britain, and while it...