In Mauritania, Proparco supports three banks to facilitate import financing and secure the country’s supply chains

These guarantees will enable each bank to secure import transactions by covering default risks on financial instruments issued on behalf of their importing clients. The initiative is intended to address the challenges of food and basic goods supply, in an international context marked by rising prices and logistical tensions.

All three institutions are active players in the financing of the Mauritanian economy and bring complementary profiles: BEA has a historical presence in the fisheries and agri-food sectors, GBM focuses on corporate finance, and BMI has been offering dynamic financial solutions since 2016. These partnerships reflect Proparco’s strengthened commitment in Mauritania, with five operations now concluded in the country over the past three years.

Sadio Dicko, Regional Director for West Africa at Proparco: "These three structuring transactions demonstrate our long-term commitment to supporting the Mauritanian banking sector in its key role of financing imports. By supporting BEA, BMI, and GBM, we are helping to strengthen the country’s economic resilience and ensure better access to essential goods for the population."

Mohamed Ahmed Salem Bouna Moctar, Chief Executive Officer of BEA: "This agreement with Proparco is fully aligned with our strategic vision, which is centred on proximity banking and inclusive, equitable economic development. We strongly believe in working hand in hand with the entire Mauritanian private sector to sustainably strengthen the national economy. Together, let’s promote more accessible finance and shared growth for the benefit of all."

Mohamed Yahya Sidi, Chief Executive Officer of BMI: "BMI is delighted to sign this trade finance guarantee facility. Above all, it is recognition of the tremendous work BMI has undertaken since its creation. Once again, BMI is honoured with a meaningful endorsement — this time from Proparco. In addition, the facility will enable BMI to expand its network of correspondent banks and thereby facilitate smoother trade flows between Mauritania and its various partners."

Dr Leila Bouamatou, Managing Director of GBM: "Thanks to this guarantee, GBM will be able to scale up its import financing activities, offering its importing clients access to more secure, competitive, and accessible international trade instruments. This means our clients will have easier access to letters of credit, stand-by letters of credit, and avalised bills, backed by the additional security of a trusted institution like Proparco. We are fully aware that, in the current context, securing the country’s supply of essential goods — particularly cereals and basic agricultural products — is a national priority. This initiative will directly contribute to reinforcing our economy’s resilience and safeguarding food security for our population."

These operations are fully in line with Proparco’s 2023–2027 strategy and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), by supporting smoother trade, inclusive economic development, and food security.