Ekspordikindlustus

Ekspordikindlustus is a financial product that protects exporters against losses arising from the buyer’s failure to pay for goods or services sold abroad, and against certain political risks that can affect payment. It is used to manage credit risk in international trade and to enable exporters to pursue new markets with more confidence.

Coverage typically falls into two broad categories: commercial risk, including buyer insolvency, default on payment terms, or late payment; and political risk, such as currency inconvertibility, government embargoes or export controls, war, or other events beyond the buyer’s control. Policies may be offered for short-term trade (often up to about two years) or long-term projects (longer tenors for capital goods or large contracts). Insurers may provide credit limits for individual buyers and for entire markets, with the percentage of contract value covered and the deductible varying by policy.

Who provides ekspordikindlustus varies by country and market. It can be offered by private export credit insurers as well as public export credit agencies (ECAs) that back trade with government support. The insurer assesses the buyer’s creditworthiness, country risk, contract terms, and delivery details to determine the premium, coverage level, and exclusions. Typical coverage percentages range from a substantial portion of the contract value to near full coverage, subject to underwriting.

Benefits include improved cash flow, the ability to offer longer payment terms to foreign buyers, and easier access to bank financing due to reduced credit risk. Common exclusions cover losses not related to default, fraud, disputes over product quality, or risks outside the policy’s scope. Claims are made when a covered loss occurs, following required documentation and timely notification.