Fred P. Hochberg, chairman and president of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), announced in Buenos Aires that the bank will resume offering short- and medium-term financing in Argentina after being closed to sovereign transactions for more than 15 years.
The opening, which applies to both Argentina’s public and private sectors, follows a US Government interagency evaluation of country prospects, the results of which reflect an improved economic and financial environment in Argentina and therefore indicate better repayment prospects. Nearly 15 years have elapsed since EXIM was last open for sovereign transactions in Argentina.
“I am pleased to announce that, effective September 21, EXIM is open in Argentina,” said Chairman Hochberg. “This opening is due in large part to the meaningful reforms implemented by President Macri and the Government of Argentina. This is an opportune time for cooperation between US and Argentine businesses, and EXIM stands ready to provide the financing necessary to facilitate mutually beneficial partnerships.”
As part of the change, the bank will offer financing terms of up to seven years. Additionally, the bank will consider supporting structured, longer-term financing.
Argentina was once one of EXIM’s largest and most diverse markets. The Argentine economy holds opportunities in a range of sectors, including commercial, business, and agricultural aircraft; helicopters; farm, power, and medical equipment; and satellites.