The branch, located in the Shanghai, will support existing Institutional, Corporate and Business Banking customers operating in or trading with China, said the bank.

The bank added that the branch will also provide support to Chinese Institutional & Corporate clients looking to operate or invest in Australia, New Zealand, the UK and the US.

The branch will be managed by Danny Armstrong and supported by a local and international team with experience in Chinese Banking.

NAB CEO Cameron Clyne said that the Shanghai Branch is an important part of NAB’s strategic approach to support clients in the Asian region. NAB has expertise across the Natural Resources, Energy & Utilities and Food and Agribusiness sectors which will be key areas of focus in China.

"The branch will be a further step to support our clients in commerce, trade and investment in China. It will further grow our Trade Finance capability across the Australasian region," added Clyne.