Our long-time US importer (knit textiles, Coimbatore) emailed yesterday saying their cashflow has tightened after the latest US tariff round on Indian textile imports. They want to shift from 30% advance + 70% on BL to 30% advance + 70% net 60 days from BL date.
Order value is around USD 84,000 per shipment, monthly. We have been working with them for 4 years, no payment issues so far.
What do experienced exporters here use for this kind of credit risk?
– ECGC cover? I have heard premium is now 0.6–0.8% for unsecured terms.
– Bank LC at sight vs usance? Buyer says LC is expensive on their side.
– Trade credit insurance from a private insurer like Atradius or Coface?
– Just say no and lose the order?
Genuinely confused. Please share what is working for you in 2026.