CABEI: Outstanding Contribution to Economic Development Latin America 2025

Founded 65 years ago by five Central American nations, the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) has evolved into a pivotal financial institution with 15 member countries across Latin America, Europe, and Asia. As a leading multilateral development bank, CABEI has demonstrated its relevance by contributing nearly 50 percent of all multilateral financing in the region over the past two decades. The bank’s interventions have enabled essential infrastructure development, including the Central American Electrical Interconnection System (SIEPAC), road networks, healthcare and education facilities, and sanitation systems. CABEI leverages its +AA credit rating — Latin America’s highest — to mobilise resources through the international capital markets and provide favourable financing terms to its member countries. Since 2019, CABEI has issued 34 ESG-labelled bonds totalling more than $8.2bn, encompassing social, green, blue, sustainability and thematic bonds, including the first Sports Bond and the first Mother Health bond. Under its strategic framework, CABEI focuses on transparency, financial rigour, operational excellence, and impact. It maintains a 75 percent project-based lending profile — uncommon among multilateral banks — ensuring tangible benefits across member states. Its climate adaptation and nature-based initiatives address environmental challenges in vulnerable regions, supported by partnerships with the EU, KfW, AfD, and the Green Climate Fund. CABEI also champions inclusive growth through SME support, public-private partnerships, and gender equity. With record net income in 2024 and an improved outlook, CABEI remains a cornerstone for sustainable development and regional integration. The CFI.co Judging Panel congratulates CABEI on winning the 2025 award for Outstanding Contribution to Economic Development (Latin America).