Global Companies, the Bretton Woods Institutions, and Global Inequality

In order for global companies to be economically successful they must be able to export their goods. Export Credit Agencies (ECAs) assist global companies with their exports to developing countries by providing trade financing for exports that otherwise might not occur due to the risk of non-payment. However, much of the bilateral debt of developing countries is held by ECAs, debt that is often rescheduled through Paris Club negotiations. Since structural adjustment policies devised by the International Monetary Fund are required by Paris Club creditors in order for loan rescheduling of developing country debt, what role do the Bretton Woods Institutions play in assuring that these debts are repaid? The purpose of this chapter is to examine how global companies' exports are facilitated by ECAs and to show how the interests of the IMF and its powerful member states converge in Paris Club debt rescheduling. This edition first published 2013