The African Import-Export Bank, known as Afreximbank, and African Trade & Distribution Company have agreed on a $500 million credit facility. This deal aims to support commercial, logistics, and distribution activities, accelerating the circulation of goods in African and international markets. The financing will enable African Trade & Distribution Company to develop eligible operations in trade and distribution, including purchasing and aggregating African products, and covering transportation, storage, logistics, and distribution costs.
The credit facility is designed to support African value chains and contribute to the development of trade corridors and supply and distribution networks across different African markets. This initiative aligns with Afreximbank's goal of strengthening commercial infrastructure for better integration of African markets. By supporting these activities, the bank aims to deepen regional value chains and expand access to various markets for African producers.
African Trade & Distribution Company, initially launched in Egypt, has extended its operations to Nigeria, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. The company seeks to contribute to the development of intra-African trade, strengthening value chains, and increasing local value-added, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement. This agreement aims to create a single, unified African market.
Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President of Afreximbank, stated that the $500 million credit facility will support the bank's commitment to enhancing the commercial ecosystem and logistics services necessary for realizing the full potential of the AfCFTA. The financing is expected to facilitate the distribution of African manufactured products across the continent and favor the development of manufacturing exports.
Stewart Makura, CEO of African Trade & Distribution Company, emphasized that realizing the continent's commercial potential requires reliable systems that connect producers, processors, industrialists, and markets. This credit facility will help bridge this gap and support the growth of African trade. The partnership between Afreximbank and African Trade & Distribution Company is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
This operation occurs as Tunisia intensifies its cooperation with Afreximbank. In June 2026, the Tunisian state concluded a $500 million loan agreement with the African bank to support the mobilization of external resources and finance the importation of strategic products, particularly in the energy and food sectors.
The collaboration between Afreximbank and Tunisia also includes examining the possibility of launching a multisectoral African commercial center in Tunis. This project aims to strengthen Tunisia's position in continental trade and develop its exchanges with African markets. The center is expected to play a crucial role in promoting African trade and investment.
Key points
- - Afreximbank and African Trade & Distribution Company have concluded a $500 million credit facility to support trade, logistics, and distribution activities across Africa. - The financing aims to support African value chains, deepen regional value chains, and expand access to various markets for African producers. - The partnership aligns with Afreximbank's goal of strengthening commercial infrastructure for better integration of African markets.
