Japan-based, a unit ofFukuoka Financial GroupInc., saidMarch 30 that it hasformed apartnership withTaiwan's to help customerfirms do business in Taiwan.

Thetie-up will allow Bank of Fukuoka's customers toreceive loansfrom CTBC quickly. Also, the partners will exchange information and jointly hold seminarsabout opportunities in Taiwan, Bank of Fukuokasaid.

Thecooperation pact comes after Bank of Fukuoka opened an office in Taiwan in December 2015. The Japanese lender has set up offices incountries includingChina, Singaporeand Thailand inrecent years ina bid to support customers expanding overseas, a Bank of Fukuoka spokesman said.