Gianturco examines the roles played by export credit agencies (ECAs) which are specialized financial institutions that cover some ＄1 trillion of exports each year. In terms of their financial impact on international trade, these agencies are unsurpassed, but rarely do they receive attention in the financial press or broader recognition.In this book Gianturco uncovers the ECAs--revealing and explaining their history, role, functions, and controversies regarding their missions. There are currently some 90 countries with official ECAs; two-thirds of these countries can be classified as developing or transitional nations; the remainder include the major developed countries. ECAs provide loans, guarantees, insurance, and other financial services to their particular nation's exporters and foreign direct investors. Their contribution to national growth and development both in the United States and abroad is significant, and the special nature of their operations makes them essential to the welfare of countless businesses worldwide. Essential reading for business professionals, scholars, researchers, and students involved with international business and economic development.


DELIO E. GIANTURCO is President of First Washington Associates, an international finance consulting firm active in 100 countries. Previously he was senior vice president, executive vice president, vice chairman and member of the board of directors for Export-Import Bank of the United Statesvernor in the Foreign Credit Insurance Association of New Yorkce president, for the International Union of Credit and Investment Insurers (London), and senior adviser to the World Bank.