World Bank backs Coris Bank Chad with $10 million to boost SME access

World Bank Group, through its private sector arm, International Finance Corporation (IFC), is set to extend a trade finance guarantee of up to $10 million to Coris Bank International Tchad, strengthening the bank’s capacity to support cross-border trade and small business financing in Chad.

The facility, structured under IFC’s Global Trade Finance Program (GTFP), is designed to help the lender reduce cash collateral requirements while expanding its network of correspondent banks in a market where access to trade finance remains constrained.

Expanding trade finance access

The proposed investment, currently pending board approval scheduled for June 30, 2026, will be deployed under the African Trade and Supply Chain Finance Recovery Initiative (ATRI), supported by the International Development Association’s Private Sector Window Blended Finance Facility.

The funding is expected to enhance Coris Bank Chad’s ability to provide trade finance solutions to its customers, including corporates and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a segment that continues to face significant financing gaps across the region.

By improving access to trade finance, the initiative aims to facilitate cross-border commerce, strengthen Chad’s integration into global markets, and support broader economic activity.

Strengthening financial connectivity

IFC’s involvement brings additional value through its global network of financial institutions, helping to bridge relationships between local banks and international correspondent partners.

The guarantee structure reduces confirmation risks for global banks, encouraging them to support trade transactions in higher-risk markets such as Chad. It also mitigates non-commercial risks, including regulatory and political uncertainties, thereby improving confidence among participating institutions.

In addition, Coris Bank Chad is expected to benefit from IFC’s technical expertise, particularly in enhancing its trade finance operations and refining its product offerings.

Coris Bank’s growing role in Chad

Founded in 1953, Coris Bank International Tchad is a mid-tier commercial bank with a growing footprint in the country’s financial sector. The institution is majority-owned by Coris Africa, which holds 68%, while the government of Chad owns a 20% stake. The bank operates a network of 13 branches and serves a diverse client base, including large corporates, multinational firms, and retail customers. In recent years, it has been expanding its focus on micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises by offering a broader range of financial services.

The proposed facility is expected to deepen Chad’s financial sector by connecting more local businesses to international trade networks. By improving access to financing tools, the initiative will help link domestic firms with global markets, supporting both financial sector development and real economic growth. As trade continues to play a central role in Chad’s economy, enhanced access to trade finance is seen as critical to unlocking new opportunities for businesses and strengthening the country’s economic resilience.