Dutch insurer Achmea has launched its operations in Australia after being licensed by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority.

The Sydney-based branch offers solutions to the agricultural sector, predominantly targeting clients of its partner, Rabobank.

Achmea Australia CEO Timo van Voorden told insuranceNEWS.com.au today the insurer has only been operational for a few days, so it is too soon to assess uptake.

“We are starting with a pilot phase in a couple of regions to thoroughly test our offering and processes,” he said.

“My priorities are to conduct that pilot and to subsequently carefully build the team and the portfolio.”

Achmea Executive Board Member Roelof Konterman says he is “extremely happy with the trust given to us by the Australian regulators”.

“We will work hard to meet all expectations and maintain a high service level for years to come.

“The best way to do so is providing farmers with good risk coverage for fair prices and with excellent claim handling. Australian farmers can count on us.”

Achmea is the Netherlands’ largest general and health insurer and is active in seven other European countries.

Rabobank, also based in Holland, operates in 47 countries. It is one of Australasia’s largest rural lenders, providing corporate financial services to the food and agribusiness sectors.