The Access Bank UK Limited officially launched The Access Bank Malta Limited this week, with the new Sliema-based operation set to employ around 30 people in its initial phase. The Access Bank Malta will focus primarily on international trade finance with the move forming part of a broader strategy to deepen economic links between Europe and Africa.

‎

The bank — part of Nigeria’s Access Bank Group, one of Africa’s largest financial institutions — described the expansion as a strategic step in connecting European and North African markets and facilitating cross-border trade and investment. Malta’s position as a financial gateway between continents, the bank said, makes it an ideal base for this kind of international operation.

‎

The new entity is licensed and regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) and is the first fully owned subsidiary of The Access Bank UK Limited. The opening was marked by an official ceremony attended by Malta’s Minister for Lands and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, who welcomed the bank to Malta’s growing international financial ecosystem.

Who Are The Access Bank?

Access Bank Plc, the parent company, operates over 700 branches across three continents and serves more than 60 million customers globally. It employs around 28,000 people and has a presence not only across Africa but also in the UK, UAE, France, Hong Kong, and now Malta.

‎

Over the past two decades, Access Bank has built a reputation as one of Africa’s fastest-growing financial institutions, particularly after its 2019 merger with Diamond Bank. The group serves corporate, commercial and retail clients, with a strong focus on digital platforms and trade finance solutions.

The Access Bank UK Limited — the branch behind the Malta expansion — is authorised by the UK’s Prudential Regulation Authority and operates under multiple international regulators through branches in Dubai, Paris, and Hong Kong.

‎

Why Malta?

The new Malta arm of the group aims to serve businesses that operate across Africa and Europe, offering tailored trade and corporate banking services. It will compete in a niche space currently underserved by other banks on the island — international trade with Africa, particularly for clients that need local understanding and pan-continental reach.

‎

The Malta launch also aligns closely with the government’s Vision 2050 goals, which position Malta as a hub for financial services, digital innovation and sustainable economic growth through global partnerships.

Access Bank Malta said its long-term ambition is to grow steadily, differentiating itself from local competition through relationship-driven banking and deep knowledge of the African-European trade corridor.