JCR Reaffirms Afreximbank’s A- Credit Rating, Maintains Stable Outlook

By Oluwakemi Kindness

The Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) has reaffirmed the African Export-Import Bank’s (Afreximbank) long-term issuer credit rating at A- with a stable outlook, underscoring the institution’s resilience and growing credibility in global financial markets.

The decision reflects JCR’s confidence in Afreximbank’s solid capital base, strong strategic positioning, prudent liquidity policies, and effective risk management framework, despite persistent global economic headwinds.

JCR further highlighted the Bank’s pivotal role in financing trade and driving economic development across Africa and the Caribbean as a key factor behind its rating stance.

The agency noted that Afreximbank has consistently delivered profitability and operational stability, with performance expected to remain steady over the next 12 to 18 months.

“This affirmation reinforces the Bank’s credibility in global markets and highlights its systemic importance to Africa,” said Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Senior Executive Vice President, in a statement on Thursday.

“It enhances our capacity to tap into Japan’s capital markets and other geographies, further advancing our mandate of promoting and financing intra- and extra-African trade.”

Denya added that the reaffirmed rating validates Afreximbank’s sound fundamentals, disciplined risk management practices, and ability to balance growth ambitions with financial prudence, even in turbulent times.

The rating boost comes on the back of Afreximbank’s successful entry into Japan’s capital markets in 2024 through its inaugural Samurai bond issuance, raising JPY 81.3 billion (about US$530 million).

The landmark deal drew strong interest from a wide range of Japanese institutional investors, highlighting the Bank’s growing appeal in international markets.

Afreximbank described the transaction as further proof of its resilience, credibility, and commitment to mobilising innovative funding solutions in support of trade and development across Africa and the Caribbean.

With the JCR reaffirmation, investor confidence in Afreximbank’s funding operations is expected to strengthen, positioning the Bank to expand its reach and continue delivering on its mandate of transforming African and Caribbean trade.