Cyprus Sees Bahrain as a Key Trade Hub

Bahrain has the potential to become a key hub connecting businesses and investors from the GCC and Europe, Stavros Stavrou, Chairman of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, told The Daily Tribune in an exclusive interview.

Stavrou said Cyprus is ready to support stronger business links with Bahrain and help GCC companies seeking opportunities in the European market.

The comments came during a follow-up Cyprus delegation visit to Bahrain after a presidential visit in January. Stavrou said the two countries have a relationship spanning decades, but business interaction had slowed and now needs to be brought back to its previous level.

Turning relations into business

Stavrou said the Cyprus Chamber and Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry have agreed to establish a working team to identify and prioritise sectors where businesses can cooperate.

The aim is to bring companies and entrepreneurs together and help them identify practical opportunities, including partnerships and joint ventures.

He stressed that the focus should be on long-term, sustainable business relationships rather than short-term trade opportunities.

“We do not want MOUs that end up in drawers and nothing happens afterwards,” Stavrou said, stressing that agreements must be followed by concrete projects and results.

Shipping and marine research

Shipping was a major focus during meetings with Bahraini officials, with Stavrou highlighting Cyprus’ experience as a shipping hub.

He also pointed to opportunities in marine research through Cyprus’ CMMI centre of excellence, which works on areas including shipping, marine environmental protection, underwater archaeology and other sea-related fields.

Stavrou said Cyprus is interested in sharing this expertise with Bahrain and exploring joint research projects.

The institute has also developed products including artificial reefs and autonomous electric boats for rescue and monitoring operations.

Gateway to Europe

Looking ahead to the EU-GCC summit in October, Stavrou said closer economic relations between the two regions could create significant opportunities.

He said Cyprus, as an EU member state with longstanding links to the Gulf, can help GCC companies expand into the European market.

He also stressed the need to look beyond traditional sectors such as construction and trade, pointing to growing opportunities in technology, financial services, shipping and other sectors.

“We need to identify these areas and see who can complement each other and work together to provide winning situations,” Stavrou said.