In recent years, fraudulent schemes targeting fresh fruit exporters have intensified, particularly those using Payment Against Documents (PAD) with air cargo shipments. Understanding these schemes and implementing preventative strategies can help protect your business from significant losses.

Understanding the PAD Fraud Risk

In PAD transactions, goods are shipped, and payment is due upon the buyer's presentation of shipping documents—typically handled through the banking system. However, with air cargo’s rapid turnaround, goods often reach the buyer before payment can be fully verified, creating a window for fraudulent activity.

Fraudsters exploit this delay through tactics such as:

·         Fake Payment Slips: Scammers may send realistic-looking payment slips to “confirm” the transaction. These slips often include bank logos, transaction IDs, and signatures, making them appear legitimate and giving sellers a false sense of security.

·         Manipulated Bank Transfers: Some fraudsters initiate actual bank transfers but withdraw or cancel them shortly after. This creates a temporary appearance of payment in the banking system, prompting the seller to ship goods without realizing the payment will not be finalized.

Real-World Case of Fresh Fruit PAD Fraud

Consider a recent case where an African fruit exporter agreed to a PAD transaction with a new client in the Middle East for a large shipment of mangoes. The buyer provided a convincing payment confirmation that included official bank logos and details typical of a genuine transfer notice. Reassured, the exporter shipped the mangoes via air, which arrived within two days. Only after attempting to withdraw funds did the exporter discover that no payment had been made. The buyer could not be contacted, and the exporter not only lost the shipment’s value but also incurred unexpected freight and handling costs.

Key Risks in PAD Transactions for Air Cargo Shipments of Fresh Fruits

1. Fake or Cancelled Bank Transfers: Scammers exploit the rapid shipping time, creating fake or temporarily initiated transfers that deceive sellers into releasing goods before confirming payment.

2. Customs Clearance Speed: Air cargo for perishable goods often clears customs quickly, making it challenging for sellers to retrieve goods once they’re released to the buyer.

3. Difficulty in Retrieving Goods: Once the goods are in the buyer’s hands, recovery is nearly impossible and usually requires costly legal proceedings.

Recommendations to Prevent PAD Scams in Air Cargo Transactions

1. Require an Irrevocable, Confirmed Letter of Credit (LC): This payment method is far more secure than PAD, especially with new or unverified clients. An irrevocable, confirmed LC ensures payment upon verification of shipping documents and offers protection if the buyer defaults.

2. Request Full or Partial Payment in Advance: Requiring at least 50% upfront establishes the buyer’s commitment and credibility. While full prepayment may be unusual with established clients, it’s prudent for new clients or regions with elevated PAD fraud risks.

3. Utilize Trusted Escrow Services: Escrow services act as neutral third parties, holding funds until both parties meet their obligations. This ensures payment verification before goods are released.

4. Partner with Trade Insurers: Trade insurance can help cover potential losses from non-payment or fraud. Specialized policies for agrifood exporters can protect against unpaid transactions and support dispute resolution if issues arise.

5. Conduct Comprehensive Due Diligence on New Clients: Always verify new clients by requesting trade references, validating their business registration, and confirming bank details with the bank directly. Red flags include reluctance to provide references, delays in payment discussions, or urgent shipment requests without prior transactions.

6. Independently Verify Payment Before Shipping: Confirm directly with your bank that payment has cleared before shipping, especially for high-value, time-sensitive shipments like fresh fruits. Avoid relying solely on buyer-provided documents, insist on verification from your bank or an independent source.

By staying vigilant and choosing secure payment methods over PAD, exporters can reduce the risk of fraud, safeguard their assets, and avoid costly disputes. Protecting your business begins with thorough due diligence and a strong stance on verified payments.

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Solina / Sahel Agri-Sol Group, an agribusiness group headquartered in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, with operations spanning West and East Africa, is committed to bringing the finest agricultural products from the Sahel, West and East Africa to the global marketplace.

Our mission is rooted in promoting inclusive economic growth, fostering sustainable development for farming communities, and preserving their cultural and environmental heritage.

By partnering closely with agricultural cooperatives and local producers across the Sahel, West, and East Africa, we guarantee fair compensation for their premium crops, driving prosperity and resilience in rural areas.