Latest news with #GulfCooperationCouncil
Time Business News
3 hours ago
- Business
- Time Business News
ISO Certification in Qatar for Local & GCC Compliance
In Qatar's competitive and regulation-driven market, businesses across all sectors face growing pressure to meet local, regional, and international compliance standards. Whether operating in food processing, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, or oil and gas, one common requirement is clear: ISO certification. Not only does ISO certification enhance operational performance, but it also enables companies to comply with national laws and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) regulations—ensuring trust, credibility, and long-term success. As Qatar aligns its business regulations with international best practices, more authorities and clients demand ISO-compliant systems. ISO standards such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety), and ISO 22000 (Food Safety) are now becoming mandatory or strongly recommended in many tenders and industrial approvals. Additionally, municipalities and regulatory bodies in Qatar—including the Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Municipality, and Civil Defense—frequently assess ISO compliance during audits and licensing. One of the key advantages of being ISO certified in Qatar is regional recognition. GCC countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Oman acknowledge ISO standards as benchmarks for quality and compliance. This is particularly crucial for companies involved in cross-border trade or those targeting regional expansion. ISO certification serves as a passport to smoother market access across the Gulf region. For example: ISO 22000 or HACCP is critical for food exporters targeting Saudi Arabia or UAE. is critical for food exporters targeting Saudi Arabia or UAE. ISO 45001 is essential in oilfield and industrial operations across GCC. is essential in oilfield and industrial operations across GCC. ISO 14001 aligns with environmental protection policies in regional free zones and industrial cities. Qatari authorities increasingly base inspection and licensing frameworks on ISO standards. Whether you're applying for a food license in Doha or managing health and safety at a construction site in Ras Laffan, having ISO certification positions your business as proactive, compliant, and professional. Moreover, upcoming national strategies like Qatar National Vision 2030 encourage sustainable practices, risk management, and quality assurance—all of which are supported by ISO management systems. Get ISO Certified with Qdot in Qatar Qdot supports businesses across various industries to achieve ISO certification in Qatar—including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 22000, and more. From initial gap analysis to documentation development and audit preparation, we help you ensure full compliance with local and GCC regulations. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
The Guardian
7 hours ago
- Business
- The Guardian
UK-Gulf trade deal worth £1.6bn lacks human rights provisions, groups warn
The UK is on the brink of signing a £1.6bn trade agreement with Gulf states, amid warnings from rights groups that the deal makes no concrete provisions on human rights, modern slavery or the environment. The deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council – which includes the countries Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates – is within touching distance, making it a fourth trading agreement by Keir Starmer after pacts were struck with the US, India and the EU. The UK has said it hopes the deal will eventually add an extra £8.6bn a year to trade between the UK and GCC countries by 2035. Sources close to the negotiations in the oil-rich region said the deal was now at its final stages and they expected UK agreement imminently. The deal is likely to be particularly beneficial for the car industry and financial services, though estimates suggest that a free trade agreement would be worth less than 0.1% of GDP over the next decade. The TUC is among those who have urged caution over the deal and has raised concerns with ministers, the Guardian understands. Human rights groups have previously said the UK should not finalise a free trade agreement without legal commitments on human rights improvements, especially for migrant workers. They said that the UK and GCC should have strong human rights conditions in any future agreement and the UK should provide its own independent impact assessment transparently on the potential consequences of deepening trade ties. Another source close to the talks suggested that though there were likely to be some language around human rights as part of the commitments, there were no legal obligations involved. A spokesperson for the Department of Business and Trade said: 'Negotiations on a trade deal with the GCC are ongoing. Our priority is to get the right deal, and we're not setting a deadline.' A departmental source said there was a possibility a pause would be needed for Eid al-Adha, which begins on 6 June. The UK-GCC trade agreement is also likely to have an impact on the UK's net zero ambitions, with all six GCC countries ranking in the top 10 per capita for carbon emissions. The TUC's general secretary, Paul Nowak, said: 'The TUC has raised concerns directly with ministers about a trade deal with the Gulf states and we will continue to do so. 'Our view on trade deals is consistent – the government should not agree deals with countries that abuse humans rights and workers' rights, and violate international law. It was right for the government to suspend trade talks with Israel. 'We will continue to make the case with ministers for a trade agenda with workers at its heart – and to press the issue of labour standards and human rights in the Gulf states and other countries.' Tom Wills, the director of the Trade Justice Movement, said: 'The UK-GCC trade deal is a values-free agreement that will offer minimal benefit to the UK economy while signalling that human rights and environmental protections are not a priority in UK trade policy. 'The government has chosen to finalise this deal without publishing a human rights impact assessment, securing binding commitments on labour rights or environmental standards, or allowing parliament any meaningful scrutiny. It's a continuation of a secretive, short-term approach to trade that puts corporate access above public values.' Wills said that warm words around rights in the deal would still mean it fell short of comparable standards. 'When we see progressive language in a trade deal - around supporting workers or the environment – we always ask the same question: is it binding? Will there be consequences for failing to uphold standards. If not, these warm words aren't worth the paper they're written on,' he said. Negotiations have been led by trade minister Douglas Alexander who is set to conclude work started under the Conservatives, which was once seen as a more concrete prospect than the India deal, signed a fortnight ago. Alexander is expected to meet his counterpart for final signoff. The previous trade minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan had promised in parliament that the deal 'will not come at the expense of human rights'. MPs have pointed out that there is precedent for including rights concerns in trade deal, such as the chapter on Indigenous peoples in the New Zealand deal which makes commitments on their part in their nation's future progress. Nick Thomas-Symonds, who was then shadow trade secretary, said in opposition that it was 'crucial that human rights, women's rights and workers' rights are embedded in UK trade negotiations'. But in the most recent exchanges under the Labour government, Lords trade minister Baroness Jones said that although the UK was a 'leading advocate for human rights around the world … this work takes place separately to negotiations on free trade agreements. 'While aspects of trade policy can provide the opportunity to address other issues in a bilateral relationship, free trade agreements are not generally the most effective or targeted tool to advance human rights issues,' she told the Lords last year. The UAE trade minister Dr Thani bin Ahmed al-Zeyoudi told Politico in 2023 that the UK and other western countries must 'tone down' standard human and workers' rights provisions in trade deals 'if they want more market access and more business opportunities'. Trade with the six-member bloc is worth about £59bn a year, according to government estimates, as the UK's seventh-largest export market, with a trade deal expected to increase trade by about 16%. Individual Gulf states could also pursue their own deeper partnerships with the UK and sovereign wealth funds in Gulf nations including Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been some of the biggest foreign investors in the UK. The trade secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, and Alexander chose the Gulf for their first joint international visit after the election. Starmer visited Saudi Arabia in December. The UK has previously pledged that the deal will not compromise environmental, public health, animal welfare and food standards, made all the more pressing because of the agrifoods deal the UK hopes to seal with the EU in the coming months. The NHS and health services are excluded from the deal. Technology, innovation and financial services will form a key part of the deal which is also likely to have some work and visa provisions for businesspeople from both the UK and the Gulf states – another area that could provoke attack from the Conservatives and Reform, though most of the deal was negotiated under the Tories. Joey Shea, a Saudi Arabia and UAE researcher at Human Rights Watch, said: 'Finalising a UK-GCC trade agreement without concrete rights protections would be a grave mistake with grim consequences for migrant workers across the Gulf.' Polling conducted by the Trades Justice Movement in November 2024 suggested there was public opposition to the deal, with just 21% of people in favour. The TUC previously submitted evidence during the Conservative negotiations over the deal, saying that the 'kafala' system – which involves binding migrant workers to a specific employer – had entrenched modern slavery and exploited millions of migrant workers.
New Straits Times
11 hours ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
NST Leader: Threats won't end the slaughter in Gaza
PRESSURE is piling on Israel as its warmongering leader Benjamin Netanyahu goes on a bloody rampage to drive the 2.3 million Palestinians out of the Gaza Strip. The latest to do so is Asean after the Gulf Cooperation Council called on the bloc to support Palestinian rights at the Asean-GCC-China Summit on Tuesday. On Wednesday, Germany, an ironclad ally of Israel, delivered the "most severe rebuke yet over Gaza", saying the country would not export weapons that are used to break humanitarian law, reported Reuters. Berlin's about-turn is attributed to the European Union's ongoing review of its Israeli policy. Germany is said to be selling about 30 per cent of Tel Aviv's weapons imports. Britain, France and Canada are also threatening "concrete actions" against Israel. Rebukes are good, but they must be followed by deeds. To stop at mere threats would not end Israel's atrocities against the Palestinians. Besides, to do so in the face of war crimes is to be morally and legally irresponsible. War crimes they certainly are, confirmed former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert in an op-ed he wrote in Israeli newspaper Haaretz, quoted by The Guardian. Calling Netanyahu the head of a criminal gang, he said Israel is engaged in indiscriminate, cruel and criminal killings of civilians. Yes, Israel is committing war crimes, he wrote. The British newspaper also quoted Israel's Democratic Party leader Yair Golan as telling an Israeli broadcaster that "a sane country doesn't fight against civilians, does not kill babies as a hobby, and does not give itself the aim of expelling populations". If more evidence is what the European leaders are waiting for, it was provided in an open letter sent to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday by prominent lawyers, academics and former judges, including two from the country's highest court. They are clear about their conclusion: genocide is being perpetrated in Gaza, or at a minimum, there is a serious risk of genocide occurring. All states, including the United Kingdom, are legally obliged to take all reasonable steps within their power to prevent and punish genocide, to ensure respect for international humanitarian law and to bring an end to violations of international law. To date, the UK has failed to meet the standards, the letter concludes. So have others in Europe, we add. The legal practitioners in the UK want Starmer's government to take five "concrete actions". First, use all available means to secure an immediate, permanent and unconditional ceasefire and ensure the unconditional and unimpeded resumption of aid. Second, lift Israel's ban on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. Third, impose financial and immigration sanctions on Israeli ministers, military personnel and civil personnel reasonably suspected of involvement in unlawful acts. Fourth, review trade ties with Israel; suspend the 2030 Roadmap for closer UK-Israel partnership; and impose trade sanctions on Israel. Finally, confirm that the UK will adhere to its obligation to execute arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court. This is crucial because without being held accountable, Israel will continue to massacre Palestinians with impunity, as it is doing in Gaza. Britain and the EU have the power to end the slaughter in Gaza. They must exercise their power.
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Saudi Arabia Clinical Laboratory Service Market Research 2025: Vision 2030 Drives Healthcare Modernization, Resulting in Boost in Clinical Laboratory Services
Opportunities in Saudi Arabia's Clinical Laboratory Service Market lie in the rising demand for diagnostics, fueled by chronic disease prevalence and healthcare modernization, including POCT innovations. Challenges include the high cost of advanced diagnostics, while Vision 2030 investments may enhance market accessibility and service delivery. Saudi Arabian Clinical Laboratory Service Market Dublin, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Saudi Arabia Clinical Laboratory Service Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" has been added to offering. The Saudi Arabia Clinical Laboratory Service Market was valued at USD 356.28 Million in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 446.17 Million by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 4.02% Market expansion is being driven by the growing demand for diagnostic services, a rising prevalence of chronic diseases, and ongoing advancements in the country's healthcare infrastructure. As part of its Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia is making significant investments in healthcare modernization, positioning clinical laboratory services as a cornerstone of improved patient care and accurate medical diagnostics. The market encompasses a broad range of diagnostic offerings, including routine blood tests, molecular diagnostics, genetic testing, microbiology, and pathology services. The increasing incidence of chronic conditions - such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer - has underscored the need for timely and precise diagnostic testing. Clinical laboratories play a pivotal role in supporting physicians with essential data for early disease detection, diagnosis, and the development of effective treatment plans. Key Market Drivers The rapid expansion of Saudi Arabia's healthcare industry is a primary driver of the clinical laboratory services market. The country represents approximately 60% of total healthcare spending in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and continues to prioritize healthcare as a strategic focus. In 2022, the government allocated USD 36.8 billion to healthcare and social development, representing 14.4% of the national budget. This ongoing investment is fostering significant growth in medical infrastructure and healthcare delivery capacity. As hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers expand, so too does the demand for advanced laboratory services. The clinical laboratory sector is benefiting from increased utilization of sophisticated diagnostics to support personalized medicine and proactive healthcare delivery. One of the key factors fueling this demand is the escalating burden of chronic diseases. According to the Saudi Medical Journal, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rose from 8.5% in 1992 to 39.5% in 2022. The analysis also indicates that reducing obesity rates could have potentially lowered diabetes prevalence by 10% in 2022. Clinical laboratories are integral to addressing this challenge, offering critical diagnostic capabilities that support disease prevention, early detection, and long-term management - particularly in specialties such as biochemistry, pathology, and molecular diagnostics. Key Market Challenges The adoption of advanced diagnostic tools presents a significant financial challenge for the Saudi Arabia clinical laboratory services market. Technologies such as automation systems, molecular diagnostics, artificial intelligence (AI), and next-generation sequencing (NGS) require substantial upfront investment, creating barriers to entry for smaller or regionally located laboratories. In addition to acquisition costs, there are ongoing expenditures related to equipment maintenance, software upgrades, and the recruitment and training of specialized personnel. Ensuring regulatory compliance and maintaining quality standards also add to operational costs. These financial and logistical challenges can impede the market's broader development, particularly in underserved or rural areas, where the availability of high-end diagnostic services may remain limited. This disparity in access contributes to variations in service quality across the country and underscores the need for strategies that make advanced technologies more accessible and scalable. Key Market Trends A notable trend reshaping the Saudi clinical laboratory landscape is the increasing adoption of Point-of-Care Testing (POCT). POCT refers to diagnostic testing conducted at or near the patient's location, offering rapid results and facilitating immediate clinical decision-making. This model is especially beneficial in remote or emergency settings where timely diagnostics are critical. Technological innovations are enhancing POCT capabilities through miniaturized devices, biosensor integration, and telemedicine-enabled remote monitoring. These advancements align with the broader healthcare objective of providing efficient, patient-centered care. Biosensors - key components in POCT platforms - are instrumental in delivering accurate, real-time results. As these technologies evolve, POCT is becoming an essential part of the diagnostic ecosystem, supporting both preventive and personalized care strategies. The growing shift toward accessible and decentralized healthcare is expected to further accelerate POCT adoption across Saudi Arabia. Report Scope Key Market Players Fresenius Medical Care Saudi Arabia Societe Generale de Surveillance SA. Delta Medical Laboratories Alfa Laboratory Al Borg Diagnostics Saudi Arabia Clinical Laboratory Service Market, By Test Type: Human & Tumor Genetics Clinical Chemistry Medical Microbiology & Cytology Others Saudi Arabia Clinical Laboratory Service Market, By Application: Bioanalytical & Lab Chemistry Oxicology Testing Preclinical & Clinical Trial Drug Discovery & Development Others Saudi Arabia Clinical Laboratory Service Market, By Region: Eastern Western Northern & Central Southern Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 85 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $356.28 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $446.17 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.0% Regions Covered Saudi Arabia For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Saudi Arabian Clinical Laboratory Service Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Fashion Network
13 hours ago
- Business
- Fashion Network
The Bear House enters UAE market to kick off global expansion
Men's apparel brand The Bear House has announced its entry into the United Arab Emirates, marking its first international foray in the Gulf Cooperation Council region. The move is positioned as a strategic step towards broader global expansion, with a focus on brick-and-mortar retail and omni-channel growth across the Middle East. The brand's smart casual offering, comprising comfort-driven silhouettes and wardrobe staples, has been made available through established regional platforms including Noon, Namshi, and Amazon, The Bear House announced in a press release. These e-commerce partners were selected for their strong local presence, logistical efficiency, and ability to reach fashion-forward consumers. 'This is our first major step towards becoming a global Indian brand,' said The Bear House's co-founder Harsh Somaiya in a press release. 'The Bear House fills in the 'affordable luxury' gap for the GCC consumer, who currently has only two choices- high-end luxury brands and value brands. The UAE, being the fashion and e-commerce hub of the GCC, offers a brand like ours developed infrastructure, a ready consumer base, and market accessibility, making it an ideal gateway for expansion into the wider Middle Eastern market and a natural extension of our current business in India.' Founded in 2017, The Bear House has grown from an online-only label to having a retail presence in Indian cities including Bengaluru and Hyderabad. The brand recently raised Rs 50 crore in a Series A funding round and secured a Rs 3 crore investment on Shark Tank India Season 4.
