The acquisition of Cedar Rose by Coface It comes at a crucial moment, as underlined by the Coface Risk Review July 2025. This report highlights the growth potential in Africa and the Middle East, while also warning about the structural risks, energy volatility, and geopolitical tensions that companies with commercial interests in these areas must consider. With this integration, Coface seeks to provide Spanish companies, both exporters and those seeking to establish themselves in these markets, with more accurate, up-to-date, and locally adapted information.
Cedar Rose, with more than 25 years of experience, has built a vast commercial network that allows it to generate high-quality data, recognized by its multinational clients. The incorporation of this company not only strengthens Coface's international position, but also confers a direct competitive advantage for Spanish exporting companies, facilitating more informed decision-making in markets with particular characteristics.
Opportunities and Challenges in Africa and the Middle East
El Coface Risk Review July 2025, a quarterly analysis assessing the global economic outlook, projects a 3,7% growth in Africa by 2025 and 4,1% in 2026. Despite the continent's low exposure to trade with the United States, the economic slowdown in Europe and China, along with the fall in raw material prices, have an impact. Countries such as Nigeria, with a lower dependence on raw material exports and a diversifying economy, are better positioned. Others, such as South Africa, face a more muted recovery due to their exposure to US tariffs in key sectors such as the automotive and metals industries.
This acquisition aligns with the strategic plan Power the Core Coface, which focuses on excellence in data, technology and value-added solutions, reaffirming the company's commitment to supporting international trade
En Middle East, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar, maintains a robust non-oil sectorA rebound is anticipated in 2026, driven by economic diversification plans, increased investment in tourism, leisure, and technology, and possible additional stimulus if US interest rates decline. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are emerging as major destinations for foreign direct investment. However, significant risks remain, linked to geopolitical tensions, dependence on government policies, and sensitivity to energy prices.
Commercial Information: A Strategic Asset
The ability to operate in these markets with security and strategic vision depends fundamentally on the reliable business informationCedar Rose's experience, extensive network of contacts and proven verification capabilities are now integrated with Coface's global database, which covers more than 200 million companiesThis database is fed by Coface's own insurance activity and is updated with more than 450.000 new reports per month.
The information is validated and analyzed by 400 experts distributed in 53 information centers around the world, ensuring homogeneous and comparable assessments across different countries. In addition, the Coface Data Lab It uses artificial intelligence and advanced analytics techniques to transform large volumes of data into predictive and innovative products, facilitating agile and accurate business decision-making.
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