What is Trade Credit Insurance?
Trade Credit Insurance (TCI) is a policy that safeguards businesses against the risk of customer non-payment. If a client defaults due to insolvency, delayed payments, or political risks, the insurance provider compensates the seller.
This coverage helps businesses maintain steady cash flow even if customers fail to pay their dues.
Key Features
- Protection Against Bad Debts – Ensures businesses don’t suffer losses due to unpaid invoices
- Improved Cash Flow Management – Provides stability and reduces financial uncertainty
- Better Financing Opportunities – Insured receivables can help businesses secure better credit terms from banks
- Coverage Options – Businesses can insure all sales or select specific transactions or customers
Why Do Businesses Need Trade Credit Insurance in UAE?
In the UAE’s competitive market, businesses often extend credit to attract clients and drive sales. However, this comes with risks, making it crucial to get insurance that covers the same.
Here’s why Trade Credit Insurance is crucial —
- Prevents Bad Debt Losses – Reduces the impact of unpaid invoices on cash flow
- Encourages Business Growth – Enables companies to offer credit to new customers with confidence
- Supports International Trade – Protects businesses against global market uncertainties
- Enhances Financial Stability – Helps secure better loan terms from banks by reducing credit risk
- Strengthens Customer Relationships – Allows businesses to extend competitive credit terms without financial fear
Types of Trade Credit Insurance
Each type of coverage ensures businesses can choose the right policy based on their risk exposure and financial goals —
Type |
Description |
Whole Turnover Insurance |
Covers all business-to-business (B2B )transactions, ideal for businesses with multiple customers |
Single Buyer Insurance |
Protects against non-payment from a specific key customer |
Key Account Insurance |
Covers a select group of major clients |
Export Credit Insurance |
Protects businesses from international trade risks, including political instability |
Domestic Credit Insurance |
Covers businesses operating within the UAE against local payment risks |
How Does Trade Credit Insurance Work?
Trade Credit Insurance UAE follows a systematic approach to mitigate credit risks. Here’s how it works —
- Customer Credit Assessment – The insurer evaluates the financial health of your customers to determine credit limits
- Credit Limit Assignment – Each customer is given a credit limit, which is the maximum amount covered in case of default
- Business Operations as Usual – You continue trading with insured customers, knowing that your invoices are protected
- Ongoing Credit Monitoring – The insurer keeps track of customers’ financial stability and may adjust credit limits accordingly
- Filing a Claim – If a customer defaults, you report it to the insurer — they assess the claim and compensate you for the insured amount
Is Trade Credit Insurance Worth It?
For businesses that operate on credit, Trade Credit Insurance is a crucial financial safeguard. The benefits outweigh the costs, especially for companies that deal with —
✔ High-value transactions
✔ International clients
✔ Customers with uncertain payment history
✔ Extended credit terms (30-90 days or more)
By securing their receivables, businesses can grow with confidence, knowing that unpaid invoices won’t disrupt operations or cash flow.
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Industries that Benefit from Trade Credit Insurance
Trade Credit Insurance in UAE is invaluable across multiple sectors where credit transactions are common.
Some industries that benefit the most include —
- Retail & Wholesale – Protection from customer defaults in fast-moving goods industries
- Manufacturing – Safeguards against payment delays from distributors
- Construction – Ensures contractors and suppliers get paid on time
- Logistics & Distribution – Covers risks associated with transport and supply chain transactions
- Oil & Gas – Shields companies from payment risks in high-value transactions
These industries often deal with high transaction volumes and extended payment terms, making credit insurance a valuable risk management tool.
How Much Does Trade Credit Insurance Cost?
The cost of Trade Credit Insurance in the UAE depends on several factors —
Factors Affecting Cost |
Impact on Premium |
Business turnover |
Higher turnover = Higher premium |
Industry risk level |
High-risk industries may have higher premiums |
Customer creditworthiness |
Stronger the customer’s creditworthiness = Lower premium |
Coverage percentage |
Higher coverage = Higher cost |
Market conditions |
Economic stability influences rates |
Typically, the premium for Trade Credit Insurance ranges between 0.1% to 0.5% of annual turnover. While this cost may seem like an additional expense, it is a fraction of the potential losses from unpaid debts.
Top Trade Credit Insurance Companies in the UAE
Several providers offer Trade Credit Insurance in Dubai and across the UAE. Listed below are some of the leading insurers —
- Sukoon Insurance – With 5 decades of experience and more than 1.3 million customers, Sukoon offers tailored insurance solutions for UAE businesses
- AIG Insurance – It supports clients in more than 215 countries and territories, providing extensive coverage and financial protection against customer defaults
- Orient Insurance Company – Since 1982, the company has earned a solid reputation for offering customised insurance plans to both individuals and businesses
Businesses should compare Trade Credit Insurance quotes and choose an insurer that aligns with their risk exposure and industry needs.