Launch of The Access Bank Malta Limited: A Strategic Expansion to Strengthen Europe-Africa Trade

April 13 2025 07:44:03 by PCLMedia

The Access Bank UK Limited is excited to announce the official launch of its first fully owned subsidiary in Malta: The Access Bank Malta Limited. This landmark move represents a pivotal step in the Bank’s mission to deepen its involvement in the dynamic Europe-Africa trade corridor, an area that continues to present immense growth opportunities for businesses and economies alike.

Malta, long recognised as a strategic financial hub and gateway between Europe and Africa, is uniquely positioned to play a key role in fostering economic partnerships and facilitating international commerce. As a member of the European Union, Malta offers robust financial services, a well-established regulatory framework, and access to a host of international markets—making it an ideal location for The Access Bank to expand its operations and bring greater financial integration to the two continents.

By establishing The Access Bank Malta Limited, The Access Bank UK Limited is strategically placing itself at the heart of this high-growth region. This expansion underscores the Access Group's commitment to driving global trade, offering tailored financial solutions, and supporting businesses that operate within these regions. As trade relations between Europe and Africa continue to evolve, the new subsidiary is well-positioned to facilitate cross-border transactions and meet the diverse needs of businesses involved in international trade.

A Key Step in Strengthening Europe-Africa Economic Ties

At the official opening ceremony, Honourable Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, Minister for Lands and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, shared his enthusiasm for the launch, noting:

“I am delighted to celebrate the opening of The Access Bank Malta Limited, a fully owned subsidiary of The Access Bank UK Limited and part of the renowned Access Bank Group. This milestone strengthens trade relations between Europe and Africa, and we proudly welcome The Access Bank Malta Limited to Malta’s financial community.”

The Minister also highlighted that the bank’s presence aligns perfectly with Malta’s aspirations to become a leading global financial hub as part of Malta Vision 2050. This national strategy seeks to position Malta at the forefront of financial services, digital innovation, and sustainable economic growth through global collaboration.

Europe-Africa Trade: A Growing Market for Financial Solutions

Jamie Simmonds, Founding CEO and Managing Director of The Access Bank UK Limited, further emphasised the strategic importance of this expansion, stating:

“Europe and Africa are key trading partners, with Europe accounting for approximately 30% of Africa’s total trade. As Europe-Africa economic relations enter a new phase, The Access Bank Malta Limited is ideally positioned to deepen trade ties and meet the financing and banking needs of businesses operating across these regions.”

Indeed, trade between Europe and Africa has seen steady growth, driven by a combination of new trade agreements, expanding infrastructure, and a growing appetite for cross-border investments. For companies navigating the complexities of these markets, having a trusted banking partner with expertise in international trade finance is crucial.

Access Bank Malta’s key focus will be on offering a suite of financial services tailored to businesses engaged in international trade. These services include trade finance, currency exchange, payments processing, and advisory solutions—all aimed at helping businesses optimise their operations in both European and African markets.

A Vision for Cross-Border Trade and Investment

Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank Plc, highlighted the wider impact of this expansion on the Bank’s overarching vision to become "Africa’s Gateway to the World":

“Expanding our presence to Malta strengthens our position in a key financial hub that connects European and North African markets. This strategic move enhances our ability to provide clients with innovative, tailored solutions that facilitate cross-border trade and investment.”

Ogbonna's remarks underscore the Group’s commitment to offering cutting-edge banking services designed to drive economic growth, facilitate investment, and provide businesses with the financial tools they need to thrive in today’s fast-evolving global marketplace.

The launch of The Access Bank Malta Limited further bolsters the Access Group's growing international footprint, following the establishment of a network that spans key financial centres across the world. This expansion aligns with Access Bank’s broader goal of offering businesses seamless, cross-border financial solutions that allow them to take full advantage of emerging markets and opportunities.

A Commitment to Innovation and Tailored Solutions

Renald Theuma, Managing Director and CEO of The Access Bank Malta Limited, expressed his excitement about the new venture, emphasising the Bank’s commitment to driving trade between Europe and Africa:

“The launch of The Access Bank Malta Limited is a crucial step in our Group’s expansion strategy. Our goal is to facilitate seamless cross-border trade between Europe and Africa, leveraging Malta’s unique position as a financial hub. We are committed to delivering high-quality banking services that support businesses in these dynamic markets, helping them navigate the complexities of international trade.”

With an initial team of 30 people and plans for controlled expansion, The Access Bank Malta Limited is poised to become an integral part of the global financial landscape. Through a focus on innovation, local expertise, and strategic partnerships, the bank will provide clients with services that meet the growing demands of businesses operating in both Europe and Africa.

Expanding Opportunities for Businesses in a Global Economy

The establishment of The Access Bank Malta Limited further solidifies the Access Bank Group’s reputation as a global leader in financial services. Its strategic location in Malta—a jurisdiction with favourable taxation, political stability, and strong business infrastructure—creates a bridge between Europe and Africa, offering unprecedented opportunities for businesses seeking to grow in both regions.

For companies looking to expand their footprint in either Europe or Africa, the new bank subsidiary offers a valuable partner. With its focus on international trade finance, payment solutions, and advisory services, The Access Bank Malta Limited will empower businesses to make the most of new opportunities, access new markets, and navigate the complexities of cross-border commerce.

Summary

The launch of The Access Bank Malta Limited signals an exciting chapter in The Access Bank UK Limited’s ongoing mission to provide comprehensive, innovative banking solutions that enhance global trade and investment. This expansion builds on the Access Group's longstanding commitment to supporting businesses across Europe and Africa and positions the bank to play a central role in driving the economic growth of these regions. Through its innovative approach to banking and its focus on seamless trade facilitation, The Access Bank Malta Limited is ready to become a key player in the evolving Europe-Africa economic landscape.

By capitalising on Malta’s strategic position and leveraging its expertise, the Access Bank Group is not only expanding its reach but also offering unparalleled financial solutions for businesses engaged in global trade. With the backing of a renowned international banking network, the future of Europe-Africa trade is brighter than ever before.