Zurich has entered into an agreement with underwriting agency AFA Insurance to act as security for its accident and health (A&H) policies from the start of next month.

The agreement is focused on mid-market and SME customers and will use AFA’s insurtech platform eBIND.

Zurich says it identified a gap in its A&H offering and the AFA agreement ensures it can provide solutions for every business size and structure.

“For us, this agreement is closely aligned to our underwriting strategy, which is to grow in Zurich’s traditional areas of expertise, using the strength of our Zurich brand and distribution team,” Australia and New Zealand General Insurance CEO Tim Plant said.

Sydney-based AFA was founded in 1992 by the late Ross Porter. After an initial focus on accident and health insurance the firm later expanded with a broader product range.

AFA MD David Porter says Zurich is an experienced A&H insurer and the agreement provides the opportunity to profitably grow the portfolio.

“We each have a strong track record and a complementary set of core strengths to ensure success,” Zurich Australia and New Zealand Chief Underwriting Officer Sean Plant said.