Bahrain pitches AI Supply Chain plan to UK Titans
Bahrain is stepping up efforts to position itself as a next-generation logistics and manufacturing hub, spotlighting artificial intelligence, regulatory agility, and location advantages in high-level discussions with UK industry leaders.
During a two-panel event hosted in collaboration with Financial Times Live in London, the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) made a strategic pitch to British investors, framing Bahrain as an emerging centre for AI-powered, sustainable, and cost-efficient supply chains. The panels, held under the theme 'Shaping the Next Generation of Manufacturing and Logistics Hubs', brought together top executives from major UK firms in automotive, ports, technology, and advanced manufacturing.
AI and access
The discussions focused on two core trends disrupting global logistics: the rise of AI in supply chain operations and the geographic shift of hubs closer to critical resources and consumer markets. Officials from Bahrain emphasised that the island nation's simplified regulations, mature digital infrastructure, and direct access to Gulf markets offer a compelling case for companies seeking alternatives to overstretched or cost-heavy supply routes.
Ali AlMudaifa, Chief of Business Development at Bahrain EDB, and Ahmed Sultan, Executive Director for Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics, joined a panel that also featured Geraint Evans, CEO of UK Major Ports Group. Together, they examined how tariff shifts and sustainability pressures are driving a re-evaluation of traditional logistics corridors.
Industry voices weigh in
The first panel included Steven Armstrong, Chair of Morgan Motor Company, Lina Huertas from Microsoft UK, and Riddhi Karambelkar of Brompton Bicycle. They explored trends like time-to-market acceleration and cost-effective manufacturing consolidation. Microsoft's Huertas discussed how digital twins and predictive analytics are reshaping factory floor decisions, while Armstrong highlighted the need for closer proximity between manufacturing sites and emerging markets.
Moderated by Financial Times' Benjamin Parkin, the sessions also included insights from Bahrain's Minister of Sustainable Development and EDB Chief Executive, H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, who underscored Bahrain's commitment to sustainable industrial growth.
Future-ready vision
The event was part of a broader visit by Bahrain's EDB to the United Kingdom, aimed at strengthening bilateral investment ties and showcasing Bahrain's readiness to accommodate next-gen industrial ecosystems. As companies seek resilience and operational efficiency amid mounting global pressures, Bahrain's leadership is betting on digital innovation and geographic agility to turn the Kingdom into a regional command centre for manufacturing and logistics.
Bahrain's pitch in London marks a calculated move to attract firms rethinking their global supply chain architecture.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Tribune
8 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
NBB Builds Talent Partnerships Bahrain's Youth Pipeline Strengthens as NBB Rallies Education Powerhouses Behind EVOLVE
TDT | Manama The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has formalised new partnerships with a wide range of institutions for the 2025 edition of its flagship internship initiative, EVOLVE, reinforcing its role as a key driver of youth development in the Kingdom. At a dedicated networking event in Manama, NBB signed Memoranda of Understanding with several academic institutions, training providers, and national organisations, further embedding EVOLVE into Bahrain's long-term education and employment landscape. With its expanding partnerships, NBB is strengthening its social impact footprint, offering structured internship pathways that connect students with real-world learning experiences. The initiative stands out not only for its scale but also for its inclusive approach that spans both private and public sector institutions. Strategic Commitment Attendees were briefed on the programme's evolution, its contribution to national talent-building efforts, and its growing network of supporters. Among the partners onboarded are the Royal Humanitarian Foundation, AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation, and major training entities such as: Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) Bahrain Fintech Bay INJAZ Bahrain Emeritus Institute of Management National Cybersecurity Centre Corporate and specialist partners like Marsh Academy, Mada Translation, American Health Association, and Mumtalakat Holding Company also joined the initiative. NBB's move reflects an emerging model in Bahrain's corporate landscape, where banks and large institutions are taking on broader developmental roles in line with national strategies. Schools and Universities This year's EVOLVE cohort includes students from prominent schools such as: Ibn Khuldoon National School Bahrain Bayan School Al Hekma International School Sacred Heart School British School of Bahrain American School of Bahrain On the university front, participants include: American University of Bahrain Bahrain Polytechnic Ahlia University Euro University British University of Bahrain Collaborative Ecosystem By bringing together key players across education, training, and industry, the EVOLVE programme continues to align with Bahrain's vision to empower youth with future-ready skills and professional exposure. The EVOLVE 2025 edition demonstrates NBB's commitment to fostering a capable and competitive national workforce.
Daily Tribune
8 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
Ford Unveils All-Electric Bronco
TDT | Agencies The New Energy SUV model is for Chinese market The Ford Bronco, one of America's most iconic SUVs, is now going electric. Ford has officially revealed the Bronco New Energy, an electrified version of the off-roader, which will initially be available only in China. The Bronco New Energy will be offered with two powertrain options — a fully electric (EV) and an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). Unlike the ladder-frame original, the Bronco EV adopts a larger unibody design and features battery technology supplied by BYD. This new five-seater SUV measures 5,025 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and 1,815 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,950 mm. Design-wise, it bears resemblance to the Bronco Sport and includes a tailgate-mounted spare tyre. The fully electric version houses a 105.4 kWh battery pack, offering a claimed range of 650 km under the CLTC cycle. It features an all-wheel-drive setup powered by dual electric motors that generate a combined output of 311 BHP and a top speed of 170 km/h. The extended-range version combines two electric motors with a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 147 BHP. As an EREV, the engine does not drive the wheels but serves as a generator to recharge the 43.7 kWh battery or support the motors. This version can travel 220 km on electric power alone, with a total range of up to 1,220 km when factoring in the petrol engine. The Bronco New Energy will be built by Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC), Ford's local joint venture partner in Jiangxi province. The SUV is expected to hit the Chinese market in the fourth quarter of this year.
Daily Tribune
10 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
Seef Mall to Host Bahrain's Next Generation Business Showdown
TDT | Manama • Quiz show opens August 24 • Students to join company teams • Sector champions face off later Seef Mall will become the stage for a high-energy youth-business competition next month, as the 9th Annual Business Quiz Show returns under the 'Design Your Future' campaign. The event, scheduled to launch on August 24th, will bring together university students and corporate teams in a sector-driven knowledge contest open to the public. The announcement confirms the renewal of Seef Properties' partnership with the campaign, which began its second season in April. With Mastercard as the Knowledge Partner, the DYF initiative continues to encourage young Bahrainis to shape their career paths through real-world engagement. Real-world exposure The competition will unfold across four evenings, with a Grand Finale planned for August 28th. Students will be embedded within company teams, offering them first-hand exposure to leadership, collaboration, and sector-specific challenges. Three themed evenings will focus on Bahrain's economic priorities, including Banking & Finance, Fintech, Insurance, Industry, and Services. Each sector will see four teams competing in fast-paced challenges that test applied knowledge and problem-solving under pressure. Though it began behind closed doors, the Business Quiz Show is now staged publicly in Bahrain's busiest mall, drawing crowds and corporate leaders to witness young talent in action. 'Seef Mall, Seef District, is pleased to host this important event, reinforcing our commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders,' said Ahmed Yusuf, CEO of Seef Properties. 'We look forward to welcoming participants, professionals, and visitors from across the business community.' Public, practical, purposeful Organisers say the quiz show is designed to serve as more than just a contest. It is also a career readiness platform that connects students with experienced professionals and sector leaders in a competitive but supportive environment. 'This platform provides university students with a unique opportunity to engage with top Bahraini professionals in a real-world setting,' said Zahraa Taher, Chairperson of the DYF Advisory Committee. 'We anticipate another exciting season that will highlight youth excellence.' DYF is backed by the Higher Education Council, INJAZ Bahrain, Tamkeen, Lamea, and certified career coaches. Their combined input helps align the competition with the Kingdom's workforce needs and national talent development goals. Final showdown Winners from each sector round will qualify for the Grand Finale, which will close out the contest on August 28th. Organisers expect strong public turnout and participation, as the mall location opens the event to wider community engagement. The full list of participating companies has yet to be revealed, but organisers say the event will continue to spotlight Bahraini talent and elevate youth potential on a national stage.
