Coface celebrates 20 years of empowering South African businesses this Heritage Month
Key highlights of Coface’s 20-year impact in South Africa:
• Expanded access to finance for SMEs through credit insurance, building lender confidence.
• Provided stability during economic uncertainty, enabling businesses to continue trading.
• Supported South Africa’s export competitiveness by enabling safe international trade.
• Contributed to job security by protecting businesses and employees against credit risks.
Coface, a global leader in trade credit insurance and risk management, proudly celebrates 20 years of operations in South Africa this September — a milestone that coincides with Heritage Month, a time when the nation reflects on its history, diversity, and collective resilience.
Since entering the South African market in 2005, Coface has become a trusted partner for businesses navigating both local and international trade. Over the past two decades, the company has helped businesses manage credit risk, access reliable business information, and recover outstanding debts, strengthening resilience during times of economic uncertainty.
Heritage of resilience and growth
Much like South Africa’s own story of resilience and transformation, Coface’s journey reflects adaptation and innovation. From supporting clients during the 2008 global financial crisis to providing stability during the COVID-19 pandemic, Coface has consistently stood by its partners, ensuring access to finance, trade security, and confidence in growth.
A timeline of innovation and progress
Coface’s journey in South Africa began with the acquisition of Credit Underwriting Agency Limited (CUAL) in 2005, introducing products like Global Protector and Standard Protector. Over the years, Coface has expanded its offerings, launching Coface Global Solutions and TradeLiner (2012), EasyLiner (2014), and later Business Information Services (2017).
The company has consistently invested in digital platforms such as CofaNet Essentials, Broker Portal, iCON (2023), and Urba 360 (2024), equipping clients with unrivalled access to global trade and risk intelligence.
Its commitment to transformation and inclusion was recognized in 2019 with four Gender Mainstreaming Awards, including Overall Gender Mainstreaming Champion. Coface also achieved Level 2 BBBEE Contributor status in 2021, reflecting its dedication to empowerment and inclusive growth.
A strategic hub in a global network
With a presence in over 100 countries, Coface’s international footprint enables it to offer South African clients unparalleled access to global trade intelligence. The country plays a strategic role in Coface’s network, serving as both a gateway to the African continent and a dynamic market with immense growth potential.
Looking ahead with confidence
As Coface celebrates this 20-year milestone, CEO Abdul Vally reflects on the journey and the road ahead:
“Twenty years in South Africa is more than a milestone, it’s a testament to our resilience, relevance, and the relationships we’ve built. Coface is deeply rooted in the trade credit insurance market, and we’re expanding with purpose into business information and third-party debt collections. We’re not just part of the industry; we’re shaping its future. Our commitment is clear: we’re here to stay, and we’re building the way forward with confidence, integrity, and ambition.”
With two decades of experience, a strong local presence, and the backing of a global network, Coface remains a trusted partner for South African businesses, today and into the future.
