SAP GTM (Global Trade Management)

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Introduction to SAP Global Trade Management (GTM):

SAP Global Trade Management (GTM) is a specialized module widely used by internationally operating trading companies as an extension to the classic SAP components. GTM has proven to be a powerful tool, especially in raw materials and wholesale trading, for managing complex trade transactions in a structured, transparent, and audit-compliant manner. While many companies still attempt to manage international purchasing and sales processes with standard modules like SD and MM, this approach quickly reaches its limits as complexity increases — for example, when modeling contracts, flexible pricing models, or multi-level logistics chains. GTM was specifically developed to address these challenges and enables centralized management of global trade transactions within a business transaction-oriented framework. Given the rising regulatory requirements, globally distributed supply chains, and dynamic markets, the module is gaining strategic importance for all companies looking to systematically modernize their international trade operations.

SAP Global Trade Management (GTM) is a specialized extension within the SAP ERP landscape tailored to the requirements of international trade. The module enables end-to-end processing of complex trade transactions — from contract negotiation to settlement — and provides functionalities for trading contracts, flexible pricing, transportation planning, as well as risk and margin monitoring. GTM integrates closely with the core SAP modules, creating a process-oriented view of trade relationships.

Unlike traditional modules such as SD or MM, which represent individual transactions in isolation, GTM offers a business transaction–oriented view of trade processes. The central element is the Trading Contract, through which purchasing, sales, logistics, and billing are managed within an integrated context. This enables GTM to provide greater transparency, more flexible pricing, and better control over margins and risks — especially in complex, international trade transactions.

SAP GTM is particularly suitable for companies engaged in cross-border trade that deal with variable prices, quantities, and delivery conditions — for example, in the raw materials, wholesale, or intermediary trading sectors. Especially when purchasing and sales processes are closely linked and there are high demands on contract management, logistics, and risk control, GTM offers significant advantages over standard solutions.

With SAP GTM, trading contracts can be managed in a structured manner, pricing models dynamically mapped, and logistical processes systemically coordinated. At the same time, risks such as price or exchange rate fluctuations become identifiable at an early stage, and margin control takes place in real time. Seamless integration with finance and controlling systems ensures consistent data and well-founded decisions throughout the entire value chain.

GTM creates transparency throughout the entire trade process and shortens process cycle times through automated workflows. The integrated risk monitoring, flexible pricing, and the capability to manage multi-currency processes across multiple countries make the module particularly attractive for globally operating trading companies. It enhances the controllability of international business and enables economically sound management of margins and revenues.

Project examples:

-Execution of an S/4HANA implementation project including the integration of SAP Global Trade Management (SAP GTM)

-Project carried out for an internationally active client in the food retail sector (focus on fruit and vegetables)

-Use of modern SAP Fiori interfaces to optimize user experience

-Agile project execution based on the SCRUM methodology, with active participation in daily stand-ups and other agile formats

-Use of the Jira ticketing system for structured management and tracking of requirements and tasks

-Execution of consultant testing to ensure the quality of new functionalities

-Support of business departments by creating and executing test cases

-Contribution to the definition and specification of requirements for customer-specific SAP cockpits

-Creation and maintenance of test data in test and development systems for test preparation and execution

-Reproduction of error patterns in development and test environments for targeted analysis and troubleshooting

-Interface communication between development teams and business departments to ensure a shared understanding

-Planning and execution of performance and stress tests to validate system stability under load

-Support in the execution and coordination of integration tests

-Implementation of customer-specific developments and adjustments of existing programs

-Execution of customizing activities to configure the system according to customer requirements

-Customizing and introduction of new SAP GTM document types

-Close coordination with the client to identify optimal solutions for individual challenges

-On-site support during go-live to ensure a smooth project start

-Accompaniment and support during the HyperCare phase after go-live

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