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EXIM Bank Offers Relief to Businesses Affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene

EXIM'S EXIM export global trade

EXIM Bank Offers Relief to Businesses Affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene

The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) has announced support measures for U.S. exporters, financial institutions, and businesses impacted by Hurricanes Milton, Helene, and other recent weather events. These measures aim to ease the operational and financial burdens on participants in EXIM’s programs located within FEMA-declared federal disaster areas.

Read also: ALAN Mobilizes for Hurricane Milton as Supply Chain Prepares for Another Major Storm

“Our priority is to support our customers and lenders as they navigate the challenges brought by these severe weather events,” said EXIM Chair Reta Jo Lewis. “We are offering flexibilities to help those affected focus on safety and recovery.”

Relief Measures for Businesses and Lenders:
EXIM’s assistance includes several accommodations to help businesses resume operations without penalty for missed deadlines:

Working Capital Guarantee Program

1. Automatic loan facility extensions of up to 180 days for loans maturing during the disaster period.
2. Additional 180-day extensions for loan facility fee payments upon request, with the possibility of fee waivers under exceptional circumstances.
3. Waivers for noncompliance with program requirements and for defaults related to nonpayment of interest, inventory losses, or sales disruptions for up to 180 days.

Short- and Medium-Term Insurance Programs

1. Automatic policy renewals for multibuyer policies expiring during the declared disaster period.
2. Extensions of shipment reporting and premium payment deadlines by up to 180 days from the disaster start date.

These temporary measures align with EXIM’s policy of providing aid to customers in disaster-affected areas across the U.S. The agency encourages participants to review the full list of current relief measures available on its Fact Sheet.

By offering these accommodations, EXIM aims to help businesses and financial institutions weather the disruptions caused by Hurricanes Milton and Helene and return to normal operations as soon as possible.

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Preparing for Hurricane Helene: ALAN’s Top 5 Essential Tips for Your Organization

As Hurricane Helene approaches, it’s crucial for organizations to prepare both for personal safety and potential supply chain disruptions. ALAN (American Logistics Aid Network) offers these five key takeaways to help your business stay ahead of the storm.

Read also: ALAN Urges Logistics Industry to Mobilize for Hurricane Francine Relief Efforts

1. Prioritize Personal Safety

Ensure the safety of yourself and your personnel by monitoring real-time updates from the National Hurricane Center and local forecasts. With Helene’s potential for winds reaching 115 mph, heed all safety warnings and evacuation notices.

2. Stay Updated on Supply Chain Disruptions

For real-time information about road closures, facility shutdowns, and other storm-related impacts on the supply chain, visit ALAN’s Supply Chain Intelligence Center. Should you need further assistance, reach out to ALAN through their contact page.

3. Monitor Active Logistics Needs

ALAN’s Disaster Micro-Site provides an updated list of logistics support requests. While there may be no current open requests for Hurricane Helene, that could change quickly post-landfall. Be ready to assist in transportation, warehousing, and other logistical needs as the situation evolves.

4. Offer or Request Support

Non-profits can submit their anticipated needs, and businesses can pre-offer transportation, warehouse space, or services through ALAN. This proactive coordination allows for a faster and more effective response.

5. Support Responsibly

Avoid self-deploying to disaster areas or organizing unsolicited product drives. These efforts often hinder professional responders and strain emergency supply chains. Instead, consider donating to trusted organizations like ALAN, where financial support can be directed more effectively to those in need.

By following these guidelines, your organization can play a vital role in supporting the response efforts while ensuring safety during Hurricane Helene.