The African Development Bank Group’s Board of Directors has approved a $50 million Trade Finance Transaction Guarantee facility for CRDB Bank Plc in Tanzania. This strategic initiative aims to strengthen trade finance operations within the country, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local corporates.
The approved facility allows the African Development Bank to provide up to 100% guarantee coverage to confirming banks against the non-payment risk associated with trade finance instruments such as Letters of Credit issued by CRDB Bank. This mechanism enhances the confidence of international banks and financial institutions in supporting trade transactions involving Tanzanian businesses.
By addressing the import trade finance needs of SMEs and local firms, the facility is expected to facilitate greater access to essential goods and inputs, improve liquidity, and support business growth across multiple sectors. Additionally, it will promote intra-African trade, aligning with the broader objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by enabling smoother cross-border commerce within the continent.