Afreximbank expands trade finance activity as regional volatility rises

Afreximbank increased trade finance activity during the first quarter of 2026 as African markets faced growing pressure from energy disruption, tighter liquidity and volatile commodity prices.

The bank’s latest quarterly results show continued growth in assets, guarantees and contingent liabilities as demand for trade-related funding and risk support increased across the continent.

Afreximbank said trade finance remained one of its core growth areas during the quarter, supported by higher utilisation of structured trade products, liquidity facilities and intra-African trade programmes.

The figures arrive during a period of heightened volatility for emerging markets. Shipping disruption around the Strait of Hormuz, rising fuel prices and tighter financial conditions have increased pressure on importers and exporters across Africa.

For trade finance providers, the results highlight how development finance institutions are becoming increasingly important liquidity providers during periods of geopolitical instability. Commercial banks remain active, but higher capital costs and compliance pressure are making risk participation structures and multilateral support more important.

Afreximbank has also continued expanding programmes linked to intra-African trade and industrialisation, areas expected to become more strategically important as supply chains fragment and governments push for greater regional resilience.

The bank’s balance sheet growth also reflects stronger demand for working capital support from businesses facing rising import costs and slower payment cycles.

The latest figures reinforce Afreximbank’s position as one of the most active trade finance institutions operating across emerging markets.