AXA XL receives green light for first Shanghai domiciled reinsurer

AXA XL has announced that its China subsidiary, XL Insurance (China) Company Limited has received the green light from China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) to change its business license in China from an insurance license to reinsurance. The new reinsurance legal entity will be named XL Reinsurance (China) Company Limited (AXA XL Re China) after the registration process is finalised.  With a strong S&P A+ financial strength rating, AXA XL Re China will be the first reinsurance subsidiary domiciled in Shanghai and the first foreign-owned reinsurance subsidiary in China. It will provide non-life reinsurance in China.

Commenting on the development, Peter Schmidt, Chief Executive Emerging Markets and CUO Credit and Surety – Reinsurance said: “Being the first foreign-owned reinsurance subsidiary in China further demonstrates AXA XL’s commitment to the Chinese market. This move is in line with the Shanghai Government’s policy of establishing the Shanghai international reinsurance centre.”

Ann Chua, Head of Asia for AXA XL’s reinsurance business commented: “In order to get closer to our clients and deepen our local insights, we have strengthened our in-country team. This, coupled with our international underwriting experience and strong balance sheet, means we can provide our clients and brokers with even greater value and services in this important and dynamic market.”

“We appreciate the continued support and trust from our cedants and brokers who have been working with us for many years. China is a key market for us, and we look forward to continuing these partnerships as an onshore reinsurer,” added Phil Xue, Head of Reinsurance and Country Manager for China.