exportkreditförsäkring

Exportkreditförsäkring, or export credit insurance, is a policy that protects exporters and lenders against losses arising from the commercial and political risks associated with cross-border sales. The primary purpose is to enable exporters to offer financing or longer payment terms to foreign buyers without bearing the full risk of non-payment.

Coverage typically comprises two risk categories: commercial risks, such as buyer insolvency, protracted default, or failure to meet payment obligations; and political risks, including government interference that blocks payment, currency inconvertibility, war, nationalization, or transfer restrictions. Some policies also cover supplier default, contract frustration, or breach of contract by the buyer, depending on the terms.

Providers are usually export credit agencies (ECAs) operated or backed by governments, such as Svensk Exportkredit (EKN) in Sweden, as well as private insurance companies. Policies can cover short-term transactions (commonly up to one year) and medium to long-term credit (years). The premium depends on assessed risk, transaction size, term, and coverage level; deductibles and ceilings may apply. In case of a covered loss, the insurer pays the insured share and may subrogate rights against the buyer or other parties.

Exportkreditförsäkring supports international trade by enabling exporters to offer competitive payment terms and by facilitating bank financing, while potentially increasing the cost of the sale and involving policy objectives set by the insurer. Limitations include premiums, exclusions, and regional or sector-specific risk fluctuations.