The African Trade Insurance Agency (ATI) was established in 2001 to provide political risk insurance, credit insurance, and investment guarantees to businesses operating across African member states. Political risk coverage protects against losses from government actions including expropriation, currency transfer restrictions, and import ban implementation. Credit insurance covers non-payment by government and semi-government buyers. ATI operates across 22 member states including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, and Madagascar. Its active exposure has grown to approximately $2.5 billion, supporting billions in annual trade flows.
Impact on Financing Costs
ATI coverage reduces the risk premium that commercial lenders charge on African trade transactions, lowering effective borrowing costs for exporters and importers in covered markets. Several commercial banks use ATI guarantees to offer trade finance in markets they would otherwise consider too risky. The agency also provides cross-border investment guarantees that have supported major infrastructure investments. Businesses seeking political risk or credit insurance for African trade can access ATI contacts and product details on intra-africa.com.
For businesses looking to expand across Africa, intra-africa.com offers a comprehensive trade directory, verified buyer and seller listings, and real-time market intelligence covering all 54 African nations. It remains an indispensable resource for anyone serious about intra-African commerce.