S&P Global Ratings has assigned the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) a long-term credit rating of BBB+ and a short-term rating of A-2, with a stable outlook, reinforcing the institution’s position among the leading multilateral lenders dedicated to trade and development in Africa.
This decision keeps the African multilateral institution in the “investment grade” category, a rating level that facilitates access to international capital markets and reflects a moderate credit risk.
The agency highlighted Afreximbank’s strong financial profile, its growing role in trade finance in Africa, and the support of its sovereign shareholders. It also emphasizes the bank’s countercyclical function, which intervenes to support African economies during periods of economic stress or external shocks.
The bank’s total assets reached $42.3 billion in 2025, up from $7.1 billion in 2015, while its equity increased from $1.3 billion to $8.4 billion over the same period, according to data cited by the agency.
Afreximbank, established to finance and promote intra-African trade, also plays a key role in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and developing cross-border payment mechanisms on the continent, including the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS).
The bank has increased its interventions during several episodes of global volatility, including the financial crisis, the Covid-19 pandemic, and disruptions related to the war in Ukraine. It recently announced a $10 billion Gulf crisis response program aimed at mitigating the impact of geopolitical tensions on African and Caribbean economies.
According to S&P, the stable outlook reflects the anticipation of continued support from shareholder states, as well as the bank’s ability to maintain its capitalization and liquidity indicators at strong levels.
