Core Viewpoint - Increasing requests from overseas clients to extend payment terms to 90-120 days are causing significant challenges for foreign trade enterprises, leading to concerns over cash flow and potential defaults [1][2][3] Group 1: Payment Term Changes - Approximately 20% of overseas clients are now requesting extended payment terms, a situation that has never been encountered in the past 20 years of foreign trade experience [1][3] - The reasons cited by clients for extending payment terms include macroeconomic fluctuations, decreased consumer spending, and geopolitical risks affecting local economies [2][3][4] Group 2: Impact on Cash Flow - Extended payment terms are creating cash flow pressures for foreign trade companies, forcing them to use personal savings to cover supplier costs [6][8] - Companies are facing the risk of significant profit loss if clients default on payments, with some indicating that a few defaults could consume an entire year's profit [2][6] Group 3: Industry Response - Many foreign trade enterprises are exploring strategies to mitigate risks, such as offering discounts for early payments or requiring higher upfront deposits [6][7] - Some companies are also considering legal measures and contract adjustments to protect against potential defaults [10][11] Group 4: Financing Challenges - Banks are tightening lending criteria in response to the increased risk of payment defaults, making it harder for companies to secure trade financing [9][10] - Companies are attempting to use export credit insurance to hedge against payment risks, but face challenges due to clients' lack of credit ratings [10][11]