Repayment Schedule is a core term in foreign trade finance and contract management, referring to the agreed installment repayment timetable between buyers and sellers or lenders and borrowers for a sum of money (such as payment for goods, advance payment, balance payment, financing under letters of credit, etc.), typically including the repayment amount per installment, due date, interest rate (if any), and payment method. Usage scenarios include: installment payment for large equipment, deferred payment letters of credit, buyer's credit, supply chain financing, etc. Precautions: The repayment schedule must specify the currency, the party bearing exchange rate risk, late payment penalties, and whether early repayment is allowed; if combined with a letter of credit, it must be consistent with the letter of credit terms to avoid document discrepancies. The difference from 'Payment Schedule' is: repayment schedule focuses on debt repayment, often used in financing or lending contexts; payment schedule is broader and can refer to any payment arrangement. The difference from 'Installment' is: installment emphasizes the payment method, while repayment schedule emphasizes the complete arrangement of time and amount. Foreign trade practitioners should ensure the repayment schedule is written into the contract or supplementary agreement and pay attention to its connection with export credit insurance and bank guarantees.
📝 Examples
1. According to the repayment schedule in Appendix III of the contract, the buyer shall pay the first installment of USD 200,000 within 30 days after receiving the bill of lading, and the remaining balance shall be paid in four equal installments at the end of each quarter. (Note: Used in installment payment contracts to specify the amount and timing of each installment)
2. The bank has approved the repayment schedule for this export credit, requiring the seller to begin repaying principal and interest every six months starting from the 6th month after drawdown, in a total of 10 installments. (Note: Used in bank financing scenarios, emphasizing repayment frequency and term)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner