Credit insurance; a strategic enabler in an era of growing uncertainty

Global trade shifts fast – is your business protected?

Belgian exporters increasingly face unexpected trade barriers. Adequate insurance provides the protection needed to manage risk and secure international growth.

Rising tensions, rising risks

In today’s fast-evolving geopolitical and economic landscape, Belgian exporters are facing growing uncertainty, unexpected trade disruptions and a noticeable uptick in credit risk. Recent developments – from persistent inflation and rising interest rates to global supply chain disruptions and heightened geopolitical tensions – are making international trade more complex and volatile.

Recent factors paint a worrying picture:

Corporate bankruptcies in Europe are rising again, nearing pre-pandemic levels – and in some sectors, even exceeding them.
Payment behaviour is deteriorating, with late payments becoming more common across various industries.
Global competition is intensifying as trade routes are shifting, and companies look for alternative markets amid geopolitical friction.
Access to financing is tightening, as bank adopt a more cautious approach in light of increased counterparty risks and higher funding costs.

For many businesses, these dynamics are increasingly difficult to manage without a robust safety net.

Credit insurance: more than just protection

In this climate, credit insurance shows its strategic value – not only as a defensive measure but also as a strategic enabler. It’s no longer just a safety net but a critical component of business resilience and financial agility.

Here’s how it supports your business in today’s environment:

Continuous credit monitoring
Your customers’ financial health is constantly assessed by experienced risk analysts, offering you real-time insights and early warnings in case of deterioration.

Protection against non-payment
Whether due to insolvency, protracted default or political risk, your insurer compensates you for unpaid invoices – preserving your working capital, cash flow and margins.

Enhanced and flexible coverage
In times of volatility, the need for higher or guaranteed credit limits is key. Top-up and non-cancellable cover options offer reassurance, especially for strategic accounts or high-volume buyers.

Stronger financing terms
Banks are increasingly relying on insured risk, you can confidently explore or expand in new higher-risk markets.

Safe international expansion
With trusted information and insured risk, you can confidently explore or expand in new, higher-risk markets.

Better customer insights
Your insurance becomes an extension of your credit team – providing payment experience, credit scores, and sector intelligence to support informed decision-making.

Business continuity and risk transfer
By outsourcing credit risk, you ensure that one major default doesn’t derail your operations or threaten your strategic goals.

asset and fund managers reviewing paperwork - Howden Belgium

A surge in demand – and a shift in mindset

Recent months have shown a clear uptick in demand for credit insurance. Where previously it was seen primarily as a cost, many businesses now view it as a lever for:

Growth with confidence
Access to finance
Risk-based customer segmentation

More than ever, CFOs and finance teams are incorporating credit insurance into their broader risk management frameworks – in some cases, even linking coverage to performance indicators or ESG-aligned buyer strategies.

Your partner in turbulent times

While trade tensions and uncertainty continue to rise, our mission is to enable your business and help you to stay one step ahead. We collaborate closely with leading credit insurers to design tailored solutions, including top-up policies, non-cancellable limits, and political risk extensions that match your business needs, risk appetite and commercial goals.

The outside of an old bank - Howden Belgium - Banking Industry insurance

Let’s connect

Is your business protected against increasing payment risk? Are your customers still creditworthy – and will they stay that way?
Let’s discuss how credit insurance can reinforce your strategy, support your growth, and provide the confidence to trade boldly, even in uncertain times.

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