Export Credit Insurance: What You Need to Know

Exporting goods to foreign countries can be a lucrative business opportunity for many companies. However, it also comes with risks, such as non-payment or delivery failure, which can have a significant impact on profitability. Export credit insurance is a safeguard that can help mitigate these risks and make exporting a more secure venture. In this article, we will outline everything you need to know about export credit insurance, including its benefits, how it works, and frequently asked questions.

Benefits of Export Credit Insurance

Export credit insurance provides numerous benefits to exporters, including:

1. Protection Against Non-Payment

Export credit insurance protects exporters from the risk of non-payment by foreign buyers. If a buyer is unable or unwilling to pay for the goods, the exporter can file a claim with the insurance company to recover the value of the goods.

2. Safeguarding Against Political Risk

Export credit insurance also protects against political risk, which can include war, civil unrest, or government actions that prevent timely payment or delivery.

3. Increased Access to Financing

Export credit insurance can also increase access to financing by providing collateral for bank loans. With insurance in place, lenders may feel more comfortable extending credit to the exporter.

4. Competitive Edge

Export credit insurance can give exporters a competitive edge by allowing them to offer better payment terms to foreign buyers. With the backing of insurance, exporters may be able to offer longer payment terms or lower prices, making them more attractive to buyers.

5. Peace of Mind

Finally, export credit insurance provides peace of mind by reducing the uncertainty and risk associated with exporting. It allows exporters to focus on growing their business and expanding into new markets without worrying about the possibility of non-payment or delivery failure.

How Export Credit Insurance Works

Export credit insurance typically works as follows:

1. Application and Underwriting

The exporter applies for insurance with an export credit agency or private insurance company. The insurance company underwrites the application to determine the level of risk and set the premium.

2. Policy Issuance

If the application is approved, the insurance company issues a policy that outlines the terms of coverage, including the types of risks covered and the percentage of loss that will be reimbursed.

3. Shipment and Delivery

Once the goods are shipped, the exporter must provide proof of shipment to the insurance company. If the goods are lost or damaged during transit, the exporter can file a claim with the insurance company for reimbursement.

4. Non-Payment and Claim Filing

If the foreign buyer fails to pay for the goods, the exporter can file a claim with the insurance company. The insurance company will investigate the claim and reimburse the exporter for the value of the goods, up to the percentage specified in the policy.

FAQ: Common Questions About Export Credit Insurance

Question
Answer
What types of risks does export credit insurance cover?
Export credit insurance can cover risks such as non-payment, political risk, and catastrophic loss. The extent of coverage will depend on the policy.
What is the cost of export credit insurance?
The cost of export credit insurance varies depending on the level of risk and the types of coverage needed. Premiums can range from 0.5% to 2% of the value of the goods.
Do I need export credit insurance if I only export to safe countries?
Even if a foreign country is considered safe, there is still risk involved in exporting due to issues such as non-payment or delivery failure. Export credit insurance can provide protection against these risks and give peace of mind to the exporter.
Can I still get financing without export credit insurance?
It may be more difficult to obtain financing without export credit insurance, as lenders may be hesitant to extend credit without collateral. Having insurance in place can increase access to financing and make it easier to secure loans.
Are there any restrictions on the types of goods that can be insured?
Export credit insurance can cover a wide range of goods and services, but certain restrictions may apply depending on the policy and the country of destination. It is important to consult with an insurance provider to determine what can be covered.

Conclusion

Export credit insurance can be a valuable tool for mitigating the risks associated with exporting and expanding into new markets. It provides protection against non-payment and political risk, increases access to financing, and gives peace of mind to exporters. By understanding how export credit insurance works and what it covers, exporters can make informed decisions about whether it is the right choice for their business.