Africa, trade and the future of trade finance

In the latest instalment of the Global Trade Talk series, Arnaud Levasseur, Executive Vice President, Global Trade Solutions at MCB, is joined by Srinath Keshavan, CEO of Trade Risk Consulting, to discuss how trade finance is evolving in a changing global environment and what lies ahead for Africa.

While global trade is facing heightened uncertainty, both speakers agree that trade remains essential. For Africa in particular, long-term fundamentals remain strong, driven by demographic growth, rising consumption and expanding trade corridors. The challenge, however, is adapting trade finance models to better reflect the realities of the continent.

Arnaud outlined how Africa is central to MCB Group’s Vision 2030, with trade finance identified as a key area of opportunity. Beyond financing transactions, the focus is on building capabilities, strengthening partnerships and developing a deep understanding of local value chains. This approach allows the bank to deliver more tailored solutions and support sustainable trade flows across the continent.

Srinath highlighted two structural shifts shaping African trade. The first is the need for greater value addition, moving beyond raw commodity exports towards local processing and manufacturing. The second is digitalisation. Improved data, transparency and visibility can help banks better assess risk and unlock opportunities that are currently overlooked.

Intra-African trade also emerged as a significant growth opportunity. Still relatively low, it represents an area where targeted financing, on-the-ground engagement and innovative platforms can make a meaningful difference.

Together, the conversation underscores a shared view: the future of trade finance in Africa will be built on insight, collaboration and a willingness to rethink traditional approaches.

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