What is a Letter of Credit? The process of applying for a Letter of Credit
A letter of credit (L/C) is a document issued by a bank (the issuing bank) at the request and instruction of the importer (the applicant) to the exporter (the beneficiary), authorizing the exporter to draw drafts payable by the bank or the importer. Payment must be accepted and made upon presentation of drafts and documents in compliance with the L/C terms. The letter of credit is the most commonly used primary payment method in international trade.