Latest news with #SameerNass
Zawya
26-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Bahrain's economy is on track for significant transformation
Bahrain's economy is poised for a significant transformation following the inaugural Bab Al Bahrain Forum organised by the Bahrain Chamber, with comprehensive recommendations emerging to forge a sustainable future for trade and employment amidst global economic shifts. Held last month under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the high-profile event convened international leaders, policymakers, and economic experts at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay to address pressing global challenges and chart a path for economic growth and resilience. Bahrain Chamber chairman Sameer Nass revealed at a Press conference yesterday that the forum generated more than 200 recommendations, including 36 key strategic proposals. These initiatives are meticulously crafted to bolster Bahrain's and the broader Gulf region's economic landscape across critical sectors. Besides the chairman, the Press conference was attended by first vice-chairman Khalid Najibi, second vice-chairman Mohamed Alkoheji as well as members of the executive committee, the board, and key management officials. 'Key high-impact recommendations spanned sectors including food, health, industry and energy, transport and logistics, finance, insurance and taxes, education and training, hospitality and tourism, commercial markets, technology, and real estate and construction,' said Mr Nass. In the food sector, proposals included launching national investment initiatives, establishing strategic food warehouses, facilitating food product exports, and developing public-private partnerships for modern central markets to enhance national food security and market access. 'Ensuring our food security through strategic partnerships and robust infrastructure is paramount for Bahrain's long-term stability,' he added. For health, recommendations focussed on forming a higher national committee for sustainable health policies and launching an international health accreditation initiative with financial and technical support to bolster the sector's quality and competitiveness. The industry and energy sector highlighted activating renewable energy adoption through new laws, improving efficiency in large-scale industries, and establishing an independent sustainable energy authority. 'The transition to green energy is not just an environmental imperative but a significant economic opportunity for Bahrain,' said Mr Nass. In transport and logistics, calls were made for strategic incentive packages for infrastructure investment, redesigning regulatory frameworks, and establishing unified systems to streamline clearance procedures and enhance competitive services. As for finance, insurance and taxes, the recommendations address concerns over tax policy, advocating for maintaining Bahrain's competitiveness with lower taxes, ensuring clarity on tax frameworks, implementing e-invoicing, and promoting innovation in banking products, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The education and training sector is seeking to implement educational tourism and has urged greater autonomy to institutions in curriculum development, alongside facilitating admission and visa procedures for international students. For hospitality and tourism, recommendations included launching a national qualification programme, prioritising Bahraini hiring managers, and integrating tourism into school curricula. To address challenges facing commercial markets, the chamber has focused on policy reviews for startups, proposing updated laws, flexible rental payment packages, and postponing VAT collection on imported goods until after the sale process. 'As for the technology sector, our aim at the chamber, is to address funding difficulties for startups by establishing a dedicated investment fund and organising awareness sessions for financing proposals. Supporting our tech startups with dedicated funding and guidance is crucial for driving innovation and diversifying our economy,' Mr Nass added. In real estate and construction, proposals included establishing a public company for basic material supply and facilitating property purchase and financing for foreign investors. Beyond sectoral specifics, the forum outlined broader strategic themes, emphasising 'Global Transformations and Economic Resilience' through diversification and infrastructure development, and Gulf economic integration via unified policies in trade and food security. The forum underscored the imperative of Digital and Green Transformation, promoting AI adoption and circular economies. 'Our strategies for global trade and supply chains included localising high-value flows and leveraging predictive analytics and blockchain. The forum also stressed private sector empowerment, advocating for collaborative ecosystems to stimulate innovation,' he added. Discussions on Emerging Market Strategies drew lessons from successful economies, while Innovation and Intellectual Property Policies focused on enhancing IP laws and R&D incentives. A strong commitment to Sustainable Growth and ESG Standards was evident, alongside addressing Future Challenges and Climate Adaptation through restructured economic programs and regional investment blocs. 'Our collective commitment to sustainability and ESG standards will be the bedrock of long-term economic stability and growth,' said Mr Nass. The forum saw significant participation from international institutions, including the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the World Trade Organisation (WTO), and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), alongside the GCC General Secretariat, underscoring a collective commitment to fostering a stable, sustainable, and inclusive economic future for Bahrain and the wider region. Copyright 2022 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Daily Tribune
23-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Chamber expands German links
TDT| Manama A call for stronger cooperation in the digital economy and expanded investment links with Germany took centre stage as Bahrain Chamber Chairman Sameer Nass led a high-level delegation to Berlin this week. Speaking at the Arab-German Chamber (Ghorfa) board meeting, Nass underscored the urgent need for joint initiatives to foster innovation-driven growth amid global challenges. Nass highlighted the EURO62.1 billion trade between Germany and Arab nations in 2023, describing it as a solid base for deeper engagement. He noted that Bahrain-Germany trade alone amounted to $656 million during the same period. Digital Focus The Chamber's chairman stressed that digital cooperation must be a cornerstone of future Arab-German relations. 'To sustain economic growth, we need to look beyond traditional sectors and embrace the digital economy,' he said during the event in Berlin. Nass also pointed to significant opportunities to expand trade and investment despite macroeconomic headwinds, suggesting that Germany and the Arab world should jointly explore forward-looking sectors. Strategic Role The Bahrain Chamber delegation took part in the 28th Arab-German Business Forum, which focused on sustainable integration and long-term partnerships. First Vice-Chairman Khalid Najibi addressed the gathering, noting Bahrain's role as an investment gateway to the Gulf. He called for deeper ties with Germany, especially in renewable energy and technology, and stressed that Bahrain's geographic and regulatory advantages make it a natural partner for German businesses looking to enter the region. Future Growth Path Secretary- General of the Union of Arab Chambers, Dr. Khaled Hanafy, urged a shift from conventional trade towards technology transfer and joint investments. 'Sustainable development requires us to move together into new economic territory,' he said, echoing the Chamber's position. The meetings are expected to lay the groundwork for follow-up agreements, especially in future-oriented sectors like digital infrastructure and clean energy.
Daily Tribune
16-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain, UK explore new economic ties
Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber, Sameer Nass received the Minister of Investment of the United Kingdom, Baroness Poppy Gustafsson yesterday at the Chamber's headquarters. Speaking at the meeting, Nass praised the historic and growing partnership between Bahrain and the United Kingdom, noting that bilateral trade has surpassed USD 600 million, with an increase of 43%. He also outlined the Chamber's role in helping drive Bahrain's economic development and emphasized the attractive opportunities available to British investors across various sectors such as technology, financial services and cybersecurity. Nass highlighted Bahrain's strategic location, pro-business regulatory environment, and openness to foreign investment. He further pointed to Bahrain's robust financial infrastructure and highly skilled workforce as key advantages for UK companies looking to expand into the region, encouraging the development of joint ventures and long-term partnerships. Minister Gustafsson expressed her enthusiasm for exploring innovative forms of collaboration. She commended Bahrain's inclusive and dynamic business community and proposed the exchange of more trade delegations to deepen ties. She also called for increased cooperation in the areas of digital innovation and sustainable economic development. Also present at the meeting were Bahrain Chamber's second vice-chairman Mohammed Alkooheji, vice-treasurer Waleed Kanoo, board members Nawaf Alzayani and Sawsan Abualhasan.
Daily Tribune
15-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Chamber honoursJournalists for National Contributions
Bahrain Chamber held a special ceremony to mark World Press Day, honouring a group of journalists and media professionals in recognition of their impactful contributions to society and their role in advancing Bahrain's media landscape. The initiative reflects the Chamber's firm belief in the role of the media in promoting responsible freedom of expression, addressing key societal and economic issues, showcasing private sector achievements, and supporting national development efforts. In his remarks, Chamber Chairman Sameer Nass emphasized that the celebration is an opportunity to acknowledge the important work of Bahraini media in conveying the truth and raising public awareness. He commended the professionalism and objectivity that define Bahraini journalism, noting its role in fostering transparency and openness. Nass emphasized the media's role as a strategic partner in driving economic and social progress. He highlighted the Chamber's strong relationship with the national press, which consistently shows a deep commitment to the public interest and delivers a balanced, responsible narrative that reflects the aspirations of Bahraini society. He also reaffirmed the Chamber's ongoing support for initiatives aimed at strengthening the role of national media, stressing that a strong partnership between the private sector and media institutions is essential for building a prosperous and sustainable future for the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Daily Tribune
08-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Chamber discusses trade ties
Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber, Sameer Nass, met separately with the Ambassadors of Bangladesh and Pakistan to Bahrain yesterday, exploring trade and investment opportunities with both countries. In his meeting with Mohammad Rais Hasan Sarower, Ambassador of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, Nass noted that bilateral trade between Bahrain and Bangladesh reached 38.3 million US dollars in 2024. He emphasised potential areas for growth, particularly in ICT, pharmaceuticals, and the food sector. Bangladesh Outlook Ambassador Sarower highlighted the strength of Bangladesh's economy, which reached 460 billion dollars in 2024, with a GDP growth rate of 7 percent. He pointed to new openings for economic collaboration between the nations. Pakistan Prospects In a separate discussion with Saqib Rauf, Ambassador of Pakistan to Bahrain, Nass praised the enduring ties between the two countries and welcomed the outcomes of a joint virtual meeting held the previous day between Bahraini and Pakistani business communities. Ambassador Rauf expressed pride in the bilateral relationship and outlined key areas of opportunity for investment and cooperation, including housing, tourism, health, education, and real estate. Both meetings reinforced the Bahrain Chamber's commitment to enhancing regional trade through direct dialogue with diplomatic and business partners.
