Bahrain Businesses Eye Wider EU Market Access

Bahrain’s private sector is looking to expand its commercial links with European markets as the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) pushes for stronger business and investment partnerships with the European Union.

BCCI Chairman Nabeel Khalid Kanoo highlighted the opportunities during a meeting with ambassadors of several EU member states accredited to Bahrain and residing in Kuwait.

The meeting brought together the ambassadors of Croatia, Belgium, Greece, Spain, the Netherlands and Poland to discuss ways to strengthen economic, trade and investment relations between Bahrain and European countries.

Mr. Kanoo said Bahrain’s longstanding relations with European countries provide a strong foundation for expanding economic and investment cooperation. He stressed the Chamber’s interest in strengthening communication with diplomatic missions, chambers of commerce and European business communities to connect companies and investors with opportunities on both sides.

He also called for greater direct engagement between businesses through trade delegations, joint economic events and business meetings, saying such initiatives can provide a broader understanding of investment opportunities and areas for cooperation.

Mr. Kanoo highlighted Bahrain’s open business environment, strategic location, links to Gulf and regional markets, developed infrastructure and business-supportive legislation. He said these advantages could help attract more European companies to Bahrain while creating greater access to European markets for Bahraini businesses.

The Chamber is also seeking to diversify cooperation with European business communities in value-added sectors, focusing on mutual investments, joint ventures and the exchange of expertise and knowledge.

The meeting further underlined the role of chambers of commerce in bringing business communities together, identifying opportunities and facilitating connections between companies and investors.

The European ambassadors expressed their support for continued development of economic and trade relations with Bahrain, as well as stronger links between the respective business communities.