The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has received a major boost after China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) affirmed its AAA issuer credit rating with a stable outlook.
The rating reflects Afreximbank’s strong strategic positioning, robust risk management, high profitability, prudent liquidity practices, and the solid coverage of its short-term debt obligations. CCXI noted that the Bank’s ratings are expected to remain stable over the next 12 to 18 months, despite global macroeconomic uncertainties.
Reacting to the announcement, Afreximbank’s Senior Executive Vice President, Denys Denya, described the rating as a clear affirmation of the Bank’s systemic relevance to Africa and the Caribbean, as well as its prudent risk management practices.
“This recognition will enhance our ability to diversify funding opportunities, particularly in China’s Panda bond market, while advancing our mandate of promoting trade finance between Africa and China,” Mr. Denya said.
He reiterated that Afreximbank remains committed to its 53 member states in Africa and 13 in the Caribbean, even in challenging conditions, stressing that the rating underscores the Bank’s preferred creditor status and resilient track record.
The new rating comes after Afreximbank’s landmark debut in the Chinese bond market earlier this year, when it raised RMB 2.2 billion (US$303 million) through its inaugural Panda bond issuance. The offer was oversubscribed, attracting high-quality investors and setting a new benchmark for African borrowers in China’s interbank bond market.
Analysts say the CCXI rating will galvanise stronger investor confidence, enabling Afreximbank to expand its market presence in China and broaden funding sources to finance trade, infrastructure, and industrialisation across Africa.
