Commercial Bank of Ethiopia is the largest banking institution in Ethiopia, with over 1,900 branches and serving both domestic and international clients. When sending or receiving funds internationally, the SWIFT code also known as the Bank Identifier Code (BIC) plays a key role in ensuring secure and accurate transfers. Understanding the SWIFT codes of Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, including those for its head office and individual branches, is essential for anyone who needs to conduct cross-border transactions. These codes help financial systems around the world identify the bank and its specific branch, reducing delays and errors in global fund movements.
What Is a SWIFT Code?
A SWIFT code (or BIC) is an international standard format defined by ISO 9362, used to uniquely identify banks and financial institutions for international money transfers. It typically consists of 8 to 11 characters, indicating the bank, country, location, and, optionally, branch. The code ensures that funds and messages are routed correctly across the SWIFT network, which connects thousands of banks globally.
Structure of a SWIFT Code
- Bank Code (4 letters): Identifies the institution (e.g., CBET for Commercial Bank of Ethiopia)
- Country Code (2 letters): ISO country identifier (ET for Ethiopia)
- Location Code (2 characters): Typically letters, indicating city or region (AA for Addis Ababa headquarters)
- Branch Code (3 characters, optional): Specific branch identifier (e.g., XXX for head office or FIN for Finfine branch)
SWIFT Code for Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Headquarters
The primary SWIFT code for the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia headquarters in Addis Ababa isCBETETAA(8 characters). It may also appear asCBETETAAXXXwhen explicitly indicating the main office with a branch code of XXX.
Breakdown of CBETETAA
- CBET Bank code for Commercial Bank of Ethiopia
- ET Ethiopia’s country code
- AA Addis Ababa location
- XXX or missing branch code indicates head office
Branch-Specific SWIFT Codes
In addition to the head office code, specific branches of Commercial Bank of Ethiopia have unique SWIFT codes. These branch codes help ensure transfers are delivered precisely to targeted locations within the bank network. Some known branch codes include:
- CBETETAAFIN Finfine branch in Addis Ababa
- CBETETAAMEH Another branch in Addis Ababa
- CBETETAAIBD Specific Addis Ababa branch, code IBD
Using the correct branch code reduces the risk of payment delays or misrouting. If you don’t have a specific branch code, using the HQ code CBETETAA (or CBETETAAXXX) is generally considered acceptable for transfers aimed at central operations.
When to Use SWIFT Codes
These SWIFT codes are essential for any international wire transfer involving Commercial Bank of Ethiopia. They may be needed when:
- Receiving funds from foreign entities or individuals
- Sending money to Ethiopian accounts from abroad
- Setting up salary or supplier payments from other countries
- Linking foreign currency transactions with bank accounts in Ethiopia
Always confirm with the recipient or the bank to verify the correct branch code before initiating a transfer.
Why Accuracy Matters
Incorrect SWIFT codes can result in rejected transfers, delays, or funds being routed to the wrong branch. International banking networks rely on these codes to process messages and payments without human intervention. A precise code ensures timely delivery and helps avoid unnecessary fees, returned transfers, or administrative headaches.
About Commercial Bank of Ethiopia
Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) is the largest state-owned bank in Ethiopia, founded in 1942. By 2023-2024, it had expanded to over 1,900 branches and held a leading share of national deposits and loans. The bank also launched a Mastercard payment system in early 2025 to boost digital payments internationally.
Important Facts about CBE
- CBE holds approximately 67% of national deposits and around 53% of total bank loans.
- It plays a central role in financing major public infrastructure and development projects.
- It recently inaugurated Ethiopia’s tallest building as its headquarters in Addis Ababa (completed 2022).
How to Verify SWIFT Codes
Although codes like CBETETAA and its variations are widely published, it’s always wise to verify via official sources. You can:
- Check the SWIFT/BIC listing on the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia official website (which lists CBETETAA)
- Confirm with your recipient in Ethiopia or with the bank branch directly
Checklist for Wire Transfers
Before sending or receiving international payments, ensure you have the following:
- The correct SWIFT code (8 character or 11 character if specific branch)
- Recipient’s full account number and branch name
- Recipient’s full name and address as registered with the bank
- Clarify currency and any intermediary bank fees
- Double-check all transfer details to avoid delays or errors
The SWIFT code system ensures reliable, secure international transfers. For Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, the primary SWIFT code isCBETETAA, representing the head office in Addis Ababa, while branch codes such as FIN (CBETETAAFIN), MEH, IBD, and others specify individual branches. Knowing and using the correct code is crucial for smooth transactions, whether you are sending money from abroad or receiving funds into Ethiopian bank accounts. Always confirm the appropriate code before initiating a transfer to ensure your funds reach the intended location without issue.