CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance
As the UAE’s Federal Export Credit Company, Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI) plays a pivotal role in strengthening the country’s export sector and driving its global expansion. Committed to supporting businesses in navigating international trade, ECI has launched the Xport Xponential program – an initiative designed to provide exporters with the strategic tools, market intelligence, and financial safeguards needed to thrive in global markets.
With a focus on empowering manufacturers, exporters, and re-exporters, Xport Xponential serves as a gateway to exclusive trade benefits, including access to the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and a vast network of global partners. This initiative not only simplifies market entry but also fosters sustainable growth and resilience in international trade.
In this exclusive conversation, Raja Al Mazrouei, CEO of Etihad Credit Insurance, sheds light on ECI’s vision, the impact of Xport Xponential, and how the company is shaping the UAE’s trade landscape by providing businesses with the confidence and support to expand beyond borders.
Q: Can you tell us about this new export initiative from the UAE?
A: We launched this program back in 2024 at the Emirates Forum, aimed at accelerating exports from the UAE to the world. The response has been remarkable – we received more than 50 applications from UAE companies, from which we carefully selected 15 companies to be part of the program today.
Q: What are the key components of this program?
A: The program has several crucial elements. First, we focus on educating companies about both the risks and opportunities in global trade. We also connect them with financing institutions to support their export demands. Importantly, these companies will be working with an ecosystem of partners from both local and federal government to navigate export opportunities.
Q: There’s mention of a roadshow. Could you elaborate on that?
A: Yes, we plan to take these companies on a roadshow to four countries based on their interests and export potential. The target markets are India, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.
Q: That’s an interesting mix of markets. What were the criteria for selecting the participating companies?
A: The selection process was based on solid criteria. Companies needed to demonstrate financial stability by providing their financials for the past couple of years. We also looked at their readiness and interest in entering these global markets. Perhaps most importantly, we evaluated their passion and commitment to grow.
Q: How does the support system work for these selected companies?
A: We’ve created a comprehensive support network. If companies need financing, we connect them with banks. If they need insurance, we provide that. For information about trade barriers or opportunities in specific markets, we work closely with our partners from the Ministry of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Economy, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assist them.
Q: How does Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI) fit into this picture?
A: As the nation’s Federal Export Credit Company, ECI plays a crucial role through our Xport Xponential program. We’re not just opening doors – we’re providing a complete ecosystem for trade-related benefits. Our goal is to make it easier for UAE businesses to enter global markets with confidence. We identify and nurture promising manufacturers, exporters, and re-exporters, equipping them with essential tools, knowledge, and support.
Q: What makes this program unique in terms of export support?
A: What sets us apart is our comprehensive approach. We understand that success in global markets requires more than just ambition. Through the program, UAE exporters gain access to the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) benefits and beyond. We provide strategic guidance, market intelligence, and access to a global network of partners. Our support is designed to foster not just growth, but sustainability and resilience in exports.
