Federation of GCC Chambers Discusses Ways To Accelerate Economic Integration

The Federation of GCC Chambers (FGCCC) discussed ways to strengthen economic and trade cooperation among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and accelerate efforts towards greater Gulf economic integration at its 69th Board meeting held in Bahrain on Monday.

The meeting, chaired by Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, President of the Federation of GCC Chambers and Chairman of Qatar Chamber, brought together heads of GCC chambers and Secretary-General Saleh bin Hamad Al Sharqi.

The discussions focused on enhancing economic and trade cooperation among GCC countries, strengthening the role of the private sector in expanding intra-GCC trade and investment, and developing practical mechanisms to achieve deeper economic integration among the six member states.

Addressing the meeting, Sheikh Khalifa welcomed the heads of the GCC chambers and stressed the importance of strengthening coordination among the business communities of the Gulf countries, particularly amid the rapidly changing regional and global economic environment.

He said the meeting was taking place at a time when the region was facing unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenges, particularly geopolitical instability and disruptions to international trade and navigation.

These developments, he noted, had created additional pressures on regional and international supply chains and contributed to rising transportation, shipping and insurance costs, highlighting the need for greater regional cooperation and stronger economic resilience.

Sheikh Khalifa also commended the proposals submitted by the member chambers, stressing that they would be translated into practical programmes aimed at supporting the private sector and strengthening economic and trade ties among GCC countries.

The discussions underscored the importance of the private sector as a key driver of Gulf economic integration, with greater coordination among chambers expected to help facilitate trade, investment and business partnerships across the region.

The GCC chambers also reviewed a number of issues related to the Federation’s activities and future work programme. The agenda included a report on the implementation of decisions adopted at the 68th Board of Directors meeting, as well as the General Secretariat’s work programme and annual budget for 2027.

The meeting also discussed proposed topics for the 15th consultative meeting between the GCC Ministers of Trade and Industry and the heads of Chambers of Commerce and Industry federations in the GCC countries.

The consultative meeting is scheduled to be held on Tuesday in Manama and is expected to provide an additional platform for strengthening coordination between GCC governments and the private sector on economic and trade issues.

The Federation’s discussions come as GCC economies continue to pursue greater diversification, expand non-oil sectors and strengthen their position as regional and international trade and investment hubs.

Closer cooperation among chambers and business communities is expected to support these efforts by facilitating cross-border business activity and encouraging greater private-sector participation in the region’s economic development.

Qatar Chamber participated in the meeting with a delegation comprising Board Members Ibtihaj Al Ahmadani, Mohammed bin Mahdi Al Ahbabi and Nasser bin Sulaiman Al Haidar.

The delegation also included Acting General Manager Ali Saeed Bu Sherbak Al Mansori, Hamad Al Marri, Director of the Committees and Business Councils Department, and Ahmed Abu Nahia, Director of Public Relations andCommunications.