WorldFirst Receives Top Honors at 2025 SBR International Business Awards.

By Shin Min-Hae
Apr 25
2 min read

Published on 25 April 2025, by Shin Min-Hae | Singapore.

WorldFirst, a global leader in digital payment and financial services, has been honoured with the Trade Technology accolade at the SBR International Business Awards 2025. This recognition highlights the company's innovative WorldTrade platform, launched in April 2024, which aims to simplify global sourcing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through a digital solution that combines B2B payment and order management.

Six people smiling, posing with an award. "International Business Awards 2025" text on the backdrop. Formal attire, celebratory mood.

WorldTrade addresses common challenges in traditional international trade, such as complex payment processes, high cross-border payment costs, and a lack of trust between buyers and sellers. The platform allows SMEs to send digital order links to buyers worldwide, offering flexible payment options, including real-time payments via credit or debit cards at affordable costs, or with a WorldFirst balance for free. Funds are securely held in escrow until orders are shipped, fostering trust between parties and ensuring maximum transparency.

Within eight months of its launch, WorldTrade has achieved significant growth, recording a 49% increase in monthly active users and a 70% rise in monthly Gross Merchandise Value (GMV). Over 10,000 global buyers and sellers have activated accounts on the platform, with 1,640 buyers in Singapore alone.

To further enhance the user experience, WorldFirst has introduced new features to WorldTrade, including payment options based on the buyer's location, such as EU local bank transfers with lower fees. The company has also expanded regional support for sellers beyond China, enabling businesses in Southeast Asia and other regions to tap into global opportunities.

The SBR International Business Awards, presented by Singapore Business Review Magazine, recognise the achievements of foreign companies in Singapore and transformative business initiatives that stand out in the competitive landscape. WorldFirst's recognition in the Trade Technology category underscores its commitment to empowering SMEs and driving progress in Singapore's dynamic economy.