The African Import-Export Bank (Afreximbank) and African Trade and Distribution (ATD) have concluded a $500 million global credit facility to support commercial, logistics, and distribution operations. This financing aims to accelerate the circulation of goods and products across African and international markets. The deal will enable ATD to develop eligible activities in trade and distribution, including purchasing and grouping African products.
The financing will cover costs related to transportation, storage, logistics, and distribution, as well as developing commercial corridors and supply and distribution networks across the continent. ATD, which launched operations in Egypt and expanded to Nigeria, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, works to strengthen intra-African trade, develop value chains, and increase local value-added, supporting the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
This initiative aligns with Tunisia's efforts to enhance cooperation with Afreximbank. In June 2026, the Tunisian state secured a $500 million loan from the bank to support external resource mobilization and finance strategic product imports, particularly in the energy and food sectors. Tunisia has made progress in external financing, achieving 45% disbursement in 2024.
Tunisia also explored launching a multidisciplinary African commercial center in the country with an Afreximbank delegation in June. This move aims to strengthen Tunisia's position in African trade and develop exchanges with continental markets. Kanayo Awani, Afreximbank's executive vice president for intra-African trade and export development, emphasized that the $500 million credit facility demonstrates the bank's commitment to consolidating the commercial and logistics ecosystem necessary for AfCFTA's success.
The financing will facilitate the efficient distribution of African-manufactured products across the continent, deepening regional value chains, expanding access to markets for African producers, and stimulating manufactured exports. This supports AfCFTA's vision for a more integrated African economy. Stuart Mackura, ATD's managing director, stated that harnessing Africa's commercial potential requires reliable systems connecting producers, processors, manufacturers, and markets.
The partnership between Afreximbank and ATD is expected to have a positive impact on African trade and economic integration. By providing financing for trade and distribution, the deal will help increase the value-added of African products and promote economic growth. The agreement also highlights the importance of collaboration between financial institutions and trade organizations in supporting African economic development.
Key aspects of the deal include supporting intra-African trade, developing value chains, and increasing local value-added. The $500 million credit facility will also contribute to the growth of African businesses and the expansion of trade opportunities.
Key points
- The $500 million credit facility will support commercial, logistics, and distribution operations across African markets.
- The deal aims to deepen regional value chains and expand access to markets for African producers.
- The partnership supports the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and promotes economic integration.
