A new pact to bolster business in MENA region

The partnership outlines a four-point action plan, with a particular emphasis on digitalising trade and improving access to finance for micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises in the Unites Arab Emirates (UAE) and beyond.

In line with shared values and a common purpose to enable business, the partnership will build on successful past initiatives and the extensive network of both organisations.

Signing the agreement on behalf of ICC, Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said:

"This agreement aims to further strengthen our longstanding, successful relationship with Dubai Chambers, amplifying and driving our pioneering efforts in key areas such as trade digitalisation and
chamber empowerment."

His Excellency Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, said:

"This partnership agreement with ICC reflects our shared vision to empower businesses in the MENA region through innovation, digitalisation, and improved access to finance. We look forward to working together to drive sustainable economic growth and unlock new opportunities that will benefit the global business community."

Signed today at ICC Global Headquarters in Paris, this initial 12-month agreement lays the foundation for more detailed agreements to be developed on specific areas.

The action plan sets out shared commitments to:

• Facilitate capacity building and knowledge sharing among chambers of commerce through the Chamber Benchmarking initiative
• Drive the digitalisation of trade in the MENA region, supporting the work of the ICC Digital Standards Initiative
• Inform and collaborate on the BRICS Business Council in consultation with UAE businesses
• Support initiatives of ICC and the ICC World Chambers Federation, bringing value to businesses in the UAE and region

By way of the non-financial, non-binding agreement, ICC and Dubai Chambers have committed to review the action plan as projects develop.