Etihad Credit Insurance's Xport Xponential Programme Enhances Global Reach For UAE SMEs

Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI), the UAE's federal export credit agency, recently took part in a workshop organised with The Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME). This event, under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), focused on enhancing the global reach of UAE-based SMEs.

The workshop emphasised the significance of supporting SMEs as essential contributors to non-oil trade growth. It also highlighted the crucial role public-private partnerships play in enhancing global competitiveness and achieving sustainable success. Representatives from various sectors attended to foster collaboration in advancing the UAE's SME export agenda.

Hamad Al Omran, Head of Strategy & PMO at ECI, shared insights on how strategic partnerships bolster the UAE's export sector. He introduced 'Xport Xponential,' a programme designed to assist local SMEs in expanding internationally. This initiative provides practical support through credit solutions, financing, export advisory services, and risk management tools.

The 'Xport Xponential' programme also offers access to a global database of over 400 million companies. Delivered through a network of public and private partners, it aims to facilitate international expansion for UAE-based SMEs by providing comprehensive support.

The workshop highlighted the UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), with 28 agreements signed so far. These frameworks are crucial for expanding market access globally by easing regulatory barriers and reducing tariffs. Consequently, they have significantly boosted the UAE’s export activities with partner countries.

These agreements align with broader economic objectives by reinforcing the UAE's position as a central hub for global trade and logistics. They promote fair competition, streamline customs procedures, and establish transparent rules that create a dynamic business environment.

Success Stories from SME Clients

Four representatives from ECI’s SME clients—IPACK, UNIGULF Airconditioning Industries LLC, UROOJ Middle East FZE, and Gulf Printing and Packaging Co. L.L.C—shared their success stories during the workshop. They discussed overcoming trade challenges and non-payment risks through ECI’s trade credit solutions, which enabled them to expand confidently into global markets.

The discussion underscored how these partnerships helped these companies navigate international trade complexities. By mitigating risks associated with non-payment, ECI provided these businesses with the assurance needed to pursue growth opportunities abroad.

The workshop was themed "Exploring a Partnership to Boost Emirati SMEs’ Export Growth." It brought together representatives from governmental, financial, and industrial sectors to strengthen collaboration in advancing the UAE’s SME export agenda.

With inputs from WAM