Bahrain showcases MSME talent at green-digital conference

Industry and Commerce Minister Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro opened the 13th Annual Conference
for World MSME Day with a clear emphasis on national support for micro, small and medium
enterprises. He welcomed participants, praised the role of Bahraini entrepreneurs in economic
development, and underlined the ministry’s commitment to sustaining and empowering their
growth.

Conference focus
Held at the Arab Open University under the theme Supporting MSMEs in a Green Digital
Economy, the two-day forum brings together regional and international expertise to discuss the
future of MSMEs in a rapidly shifting global economy. Bahraini project owners made a strong
showing, reflecting the country’s growing interest in innovation, sustainability and small-
business development.

Craft heritage on display
A spacious exhibition area on the ground floor of the university highlighted the diversity of
Bahraini MSMEs. One stall drew attention for its handmade pieces crafted from palm fronds,
including decorative items and storage boxes. The designs reflect a traditional craft that remains
part of Bahrain’s cultural identity and continues to be practised by a number of artisans.

Traditional sweets draw crowds
Another stall revived flavours from Bahrain’s older markets, offering products such as “pizza
candy”, “cat gum” and “milk sweets”. These items, once popular across the kingdom, have
become rare in most modern shops. Their presence at the exhibition resonated particularly with
older visitors who associated the sweets with childhood memories and past neighbourhood
markets.

Varied MSME participation
The atmosphere combined handicrafts, culinary products, perfumes and children’s games,
representing a broad mix of sectors operated entirely by Bahraini entrepreneurs. Their
participation provided a practical demonstration of the country’s MSME potential and the
growing interest in turning personal skills and cultural heritage into sustainable business
ventures.