CBL International Limited, the Nasdaq-listed arm of Banle Group, has been recognized with one of the most distinguished accolades in management accounting and corporate leadership, taking home the “CGMA Excellent Sustainability Award” at the CGMA Annual Awards 2025 in Shanghai. The recognition signals a strong endorsement of the company’s efforts to embed sustainability into the core of its strategy and operations, at a time when organizations are under increasing pressure to align performance with societal and environmental responsibilities.

A Milestone Moment for CBL’s ESG Ambitions

The CGMA Annual Awards have earned a reputation for spotlighting companies that demonstrate exceptional discipline, innovation and leadership. The sustainability category is one of the most competitive and sought after, honoring organizations that integrate ESG principles into long-term business planning with measurable impact. CBL emerged as the winner following a rigorous selection process that evaluated its approach to carbon reduction, responsible sourcing, community engagement and disclosures that provide clarity for investors and stakeholders. Judges commended the company for advancing sustainability as more than a compliance requirement. They pointed to Banle Group’s structured methodology for setting science-informed emissions targets, enhancing traceability across supply chains, and broadening community-oriented initiatives in key markets. The company’s transparent reporting practices were also highlighted as evidence of disciplined governance and accountability.

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Leadership Perspective on a Strategic Commitment

Reacting to the award, Dr. Teck Lim Chia, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Banle Group, described the recognition as a pivotal affirmation of the company’s long-standing philosophy that commercial success cannot be separated from environmental and social responsibility. He emphasized that sustainability is integrated into decision making at every level of the organization, from operations and procurement to financial planning and stakeholder engagement. Dr. Chia noted that the achievement reflects the collective effort of teams across the Group who have worked to institutionalize responsible practices, manage carbon footprints more effectively and pursue initiatives that create shared value for customers, partners and communities. The award, he said, strengthens the company’s resolve to continue raising standards in the years ahead.

Advancing a Holistic Sustainability Framework

CBL’s sustainability framework has evolved considerably over recent years, responding to the growing expectations of regulators, investors and global clients. Central to this framework is a commitment to quantifiable climate action, with the company investing in cleaner technologies, advanced monitoring tools and partnerships that accelerate emissions reduction. Ethical sourcing has also been a high priority, with Banle Group establishing stronger supplier policies, audit mechanisms and training programs to ensure that partners meet the company’s environmental and labor-related standards. These policies aim to create a more resilient and responsible value chain at a time when global supply networks face heightened scrutiny. The Group has paired these efforts with community-focused initiatives, including education programs, environmental protection projects and local partnerships designed to generate social impact. Together, these elements represent the “holistic approach” applauded by the CGMA judges.

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Setting a Benchmark for Future ESG Leadership

The CGMA Excellent Sustainability Award positions CBL International as a leading example of how companies in the maritime and energy-related sectors can navigate operational complexity while advancing meaningful sustainability goals. The recognition underscores the increasing relevance of ESG performance in global business evaluation frameworks and highlights how companies that act early can shape industry expectations. For Banle Group, the award also serves as an external endorsement of its long-term strategy. By weaving sustainability into its financial and operational planning, the company is building resilience and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving regulatory and market landscape. As global demand intensifies for more transparent, accountable and environmentally responsible business practices, CBL’s win places it firmly among organizations demonstrating that sustainable performance and commercial strength can advance together.

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