Bahrain Continues to Lead MENA Region in the ICT Development Index 2015

Posted on by edbclient

December 30, 2015

For the second year in a row, Bahrain has continued to hold its leading position among the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in the ICT Development Index (IDI) 2015.

The Index, issued by the United Nations International Telecommunications Union, ranked Bahrain 27th out of 167 countries evaluated. The IDI is a composite measurement that ranks countries according to their level of ICT readiness (Access), ICT Intensity (Use) and ICT capability (Skills). Bahrain witnessed one the most dynamic improvements in IDI rankings and values since 2010, climbing 21 ranks to the 27th position.
Global leaders according to the IDI included Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United Stated of America.
Regional Standing according to the ICT Development Index 2015
2015 Ranking
Economy
27
Bahrain
31
Qatar
32
United Arab Emirates
41
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
46
Kuwait
54
Oman
56
Lebanon

First Middle East and Africa-focused Cloud Accelerator Program Launched in Bahrain

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November 29, 2015

Manama: C5 Accelerate Limited, the London- and Bahrain-based technology investment specialist, working with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), today launched the first Cloud Accelerator in the Middle East and Africa, which will be located in Bahrain.

The Cloud Accelerator aims to drive growth in the local and regional business ecosystem by enabling the rapid adoption of cloud technology, which offers many distinct advantages over traditional IT infrastructure. The program will develop and fund businesses from across the region with a focus on technologies that align with the economic priorities of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including, but not limited to, manufacturing, financial services and technology sector-development.
The Cloud Accelerator will provide business with resources to develop a cloud-based commercial strategy, enhancing their ability to attract future investment. A cohort of up to ten qualifying businesses will be invited to work from the Cloud Accelerator premises in Bahrain for four months. During this time, they will benefit from interaction with fellow program participants, training in strategy and business principles, and mentoring from C5 Accelerate and its network of global business leaders.
AWS will further support each of the participants with established programs including AWS Activate, AWS Grants, AWS Training and Certification, and developer-level support, which have been designed to support businesses developing on the AWS Cloud.
The businesses will benefit from connectivity with potential customers, guidance from industry experts and the opportunity to work closely with a network of corporate partners which will provide a range of business assistance across areas such as commercialisation, venture funding, and business services.
Participant businesses will be eligible for funding from the Cloud Accelerator’s USD 100 million allied venture capital fund, the Gulf Technology Corporation, which will be managed by C5.
Daniel Freeman, CEO of C5 Accelerate Limited, said: “The Middle East and Africa region has a burgeoning startup scene and is well placed to leverage the potential of the cloud. Our Cloud Accelerator aims to drive this innovation further and boost the region’s economy. Our “AWS Activate” pilot program in Bahrain already demonstrates the investment potential of the region’s technology sector, and we are thrilled to be working with AWS, a leading cloud computing provider, to develop an innovation hub for the region and a catalyst for further investments. The Cloud Accelerator will be based in Bahrain, a location with outstanding human capital and a commitment to operating at the speed of technology when it comes to developing a world-class environment in which technology entrepreneurs can thrive.”
Teresa Carlson‎, Vice President, Worldwide Public Sector at Amazon Web Services, Inc. said: “We’ve been so impressed with the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of businesses in the Middle East and Africa, and are committed to working with C5 and the Bahrain EDB to help these businesses grow and scale. In addition to technology resources, the Cloud Accelerator’s focus on education, training, and mentorship will help businesses reach their full potential, and AWS is excited to work with them to do so.”
Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board, said: “The GCC technology sector is expected to grow by ten per cent per annum over the next five years, whilst sector spending in the Middle East will reach nearly $200 billion in 2015. However, the region faces a number of challenges around attracting investment in the technology sector, including start-up costs and access to funding; regulatory barriers; and attracting, training and retaining human capital. Bahrain is addressing these challenges and building on its broader strengths to develop a strong ecosystem that encourages technology focused entrepreneurship. The launch of the Cloud Accelerator program is one important step towards achieving this.”
Amal Kooheji, Tamkeen’s Chief Operating Officer, said : “Tamkeen continues to support businesses and startups as a catalyst for entrepreneurial innovation and to encourage the establishment of new businesses, which is a prerequisite for developing a mature and sustainable private sector in modern economies.  This project will play a role in creating a cloud ecosystem in Bahrain that becomes an engine of economic growth, innovation and enhanced global competitiveness.
To apply for the inaugural Cloud Accelerator, please contact cloud.accelerator@c5capital.com.
 
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For further information, please contact:
Isa Mubarak
National communications manager
nc@bahrainedb.com
Tel: 17589966
About C5
C5 is the leading specialist technology investment company in cybersecurity, big data analytics and cloud computing in Europe, the Middle East and Africa with offices in London, Luxembourg, Johannesburg and Manama.
About The Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB)
The Bahrain EDB is a dynamic public agency with an overall responsibility for attracting inward investment into Bahrain, and is focusing on target economic sectors in which the Kingdom offers significant strengths.

Key areas of focus include tourism, ICT, manufacturing, and logistics and transport services as well as other sub-sectors. The Financial Services sector in Bahrain is particularly strong and the EDB supports in the continuing growth of the banking industry and key sub-sectors, including Islamic Finance, Asset Management, Insurance and Re-Insurance.

For more information on the Bahrain EDB visit www.bahrainedb.com; for information about Bahrain visit www.bahrain.com

About Tamkeen ::
Tamkeen is a semi-government organisation in Bahrain established in 2006 under Law Number (57) as part of the country’s national reform initiatives, with the task of making the private sector as the key driver of sustainable economic development.
Underpinned by its 3 strategic pillars – enhancing quality, serving customers, and achieving results – the organisation provides an integrated range of programmes to create a solid foundation for a modern economy – such as SME financing, skills training, and entrepreneurship.
At the same time, these programmes address key challenges facing Bahrainis and businesses in the private sector at various stages of their development – from start-ups to mature companies, and from students to senior executives.
To date, Tamkeen’s programmes have served more than 120,000 Bahrainis and businesses.
More information available at www.tamkeen.bh
For media inquiries, please contact:
Tamkeen Marketing Communications Dept.
T: 17-383333
F: 17-382352
E: support@tamkeen.bh

To download the press release, click here.

To download the press release image, click here.

Bahrain logistics credentials to be showcased in Germany

Posted on by edbclient

November 03, 2015

Manama: The Economic Development Board (EDB)  attended the 32nd International Supply Chain Conference in Berlin from 28th to 30th October. While at the event, the EDB met with German business leaders looking to access Bahrain and the fast-growing GCC market.
The 32nd International Supply Chain Conference brings together more than 3,000 logistics leaders and industry experts for three days of knowledge sharing in Berlin.
Ms. Vivian Jamal, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB)  said: “We are looking forward to building on our existing relationships with German firms through conferences like this. With a modern logistics infrastructure, a highly competitive tax regime, and easy access to the fast growing $1.6 trillion GCC market, Bahrain is a logistics hub for the Middle East region. We have the Gulf’s most efficient processing of trade goods with the shortest travel time between seaport, airport and logistics processing zones. Additionally, the Kingdom is set to invest $22 billion in key infrastructure projects over the coming years, across a range of sectors including transportation. We hope to welcome more German businesses to Bahrain where they can grow, create jobs, and further opportunities in Bahrain.”
The event follows two recent high level Bahrain EDB delegation visits to Germany this year, including Transport Logistics in Munich, and the 6th Ghorfa Education & Vocational Training Forum in Berlin, signifying the strong relationship between the two countries. A large number of German businesses have established operations in Bahrain including: BASF, RMA, SMS Meer, Armacell, Allianz Global Investors, and Hannover Re. Leading German logistics companies with offices or facilities in Bahrain include: DHL, Schmidt Heilbronn, and Talke Group.
The Bahrain EDB has an office based at the Bahrain Embassy in Berlin and provides information and support to interested investors from Germany.

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For more Information, Please Contact:
National Communications
Bahrain Economic Development Board
Tel: +973 17589966
E-mail: NC@BahrainEDB.com

Bahrain moves ranks in the latest Global Competitiveness Report

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October 29, 2015

Bahrain was ranked 39th internationally in the newly released 2015-2016 Global Competitiveness Report, issued by the World Economic Forum (WEF). Bahrain’s ranking is a rise of 5 positions and advances to the ‘Innovation Driven’ stage of development along with countries like Germany, Singapore and the US.
The annual report aims to evaluate factors affecting productivity in 140 countries, where the report found the Kingdom to have achieved development in the sector of higher education and training as well as advancements in the business environment, health care and basic education.
2015 International ranking
Country
1
Switzerland
2
Singapore
3
United States of America
4
Germany
5
Holland

The Kingdom of Bahrain showcasing real estate developments worth $10 billion at Cityscape Dubai

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October 29, 2015

The Kingdom of Bahrain Pavilion, hosted by the Economic Development Board (EDB), showcased a number of Bahrain’s key real estate developments, worth $10 billion at Cityscape Global event in September. The showcasing developments included: Diyar Al Muharraq, Bahrain Bay, Durrat Al Bahrain, Al Bilad Real Estate Development Company’s Garden City development, in addition to Manara Developments Company’s Investment Gateway – Bahrain, and Bahrain World Trade Centre.
Bahrain Bay, the $2.5 billion waterfront district located in the heart of Manama, announced a new investor on the side-lines of the exhibition. Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company purchased three land parcels for its new residential complex project titled ‘Water Bay’, which will be the first residential complex in Bahrain Bay.  Water Bay will feature three distinct 10-storey residences with around 600 luxury apartments and a retail floor. The construction will start later in 2015 and the project is scheduled for completion in 2017. The delegation from Bahrain Bay also highlighted specific investment opportunities with an emphasis on the South Marina Waterfront District, a waterfront precinct designed around vibrant neighbourhoods of residential, apart-hotel and retail spaces.
The Bahrain Pavilion also showcased Diyar Al Muharraq, a USD $3.18 billion complete real estate project surrounded by 40 kilometres of waterfront and beaches, making it longest waterfront in Bahrain. It comprises 7 islands with a total of 12 square kilometres of reclaimed land, and a mixed-use urban residential development creating a community that embraces the social and cultural fabric of the country. It will offer a high quality lifestyle with the most modern facilities and infrastructure, with close links to the heritage and vibrancy of the Kingdom, and will hold a number of architectural landmarks for visitors, reflecting the openness and cultural richness of Bahrain. It also incorporates a number of residential and commercial properties that meet both personal and investment interests and needs.
Durrat Al Bahrain, The $6 billion joint development owned by the government of Bahrain and Kuwait Finance House (Bahrain) is another project showcased at the Kingdom’s pavilion. Located on the south coast of Bahrain, the 21 square kilometres master development will offer more than 1,500 beachfront villas, 3,600 executive apartments and offices, luxury hotels and spa resorts, parks and entertainment precincts, mosques and international schools, premier retail malls and restaurants, as well as “Durrat Marina”.
The $1.3 billion marina will cover an area of 700,000 square metres, provide berthing space for 400 boats and yachts. It will also host the Ras Al Barr Development, which is located to the south of Durrat Al Bahrain resort. The development will offer a range of waterfront housing options, themed hotels, retail and souqs, public waterfront and beaches, as well as community facilities, schools, parklands, and sport facilities.
Manara Developments Company highlighted its $200 million major industrial zone “Investment Gateway – Bahrain”. The 601,000 square metres project is located between Bahrain International Airport, Salman Industrial Area and the expressway linking to Mina Salman. Ninety per cent of the first phase-listed plots have been already sold.
Albilad Real Estate Investment Co. WL, the master developer of the Water Garden City, a mixed-use development along the northern coastline of Manama also participated in the exhibition. The development comprises a marina, beach, gardens, and marina promenade with waterfront fine dining restaurants, together with luxury duplexes, apartments, four star hotels, and some offices.
Bahrain’s real estate market has experienced substantial growth over the last decade with total stock increasing from 200,000 square metres in 2000 to 536,000 square metres in 2010.  Growth has been predominantly driven by strong population growth, increased domestic disposable income, and greater demand from Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries.
In 2014, the number of real estate transactions in Bahrain increased by 50% compared to 2013. Data from the Survey and Land Registration Bureau showed that the total value of transactions in 2014 was $3.44billion.
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Bahrain hosts regional launch of UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2015

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October 29, 2015

Bahrain EDB in cooperation with the MENA Centre for Investment hosted the launch event of the 2015 edition of the World Investment which demonstrated that Bahrain’s inward FDI stocks reached approximately $ 18.8 billion in 2014, equivalent to 55.4 % in comparison with the size of the gross domestic product (GDP), the highest in the GCC and well above the global average.
Mr Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EBD) participated at the event. He was joined by Dr. Zakaria Ahmed Hejres, Chairman of the MENA Centre for Investment along with Mr. Mohamed Chiraz Bali, representing the Division of Investment and Enterprise at UNCTAD, who presented the findings of the report to representatives from the private and public sectors and the media.
The report says that global foreign direct investment (FDI) fell by 16 per cent to $1.23 trillion in 2014, due to the fragility of the global economy, policy uncertainty for investors and geopolitical risks, as well as new investments being offset by some large divestments. China became the largest recipient of FDI, and nine of the largest twenty investor countries were from developing or transition economies. The shift towards FDI in services related sectors continued, due to increasing liberalisation and tradability of services.
FDI into West Asia, which covers a number of countries in the MENA region including the GCC members, Turkey, Jordan and Iraq, also fell by 4 per cent to $43 billion, reflecting the global economic issues and ongoing security risks.
Turkey remained the largest FDI recipient in the West Asia region, whilst investment into the GCC remained “sluggish” despite continuing robust economic growth.
The full report can be found at: http://unctad.org/en/Pages/DIAE/World%20Investment%20Report/World_Investment_Report.aspx
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rowth in Bahrain’s non-oil economy reaches 5.0%

Posted on by edbclient

October 29, 2015

According to the Q2 Bahrain Economic Quarterly (BEQ) issued by the Economic Development Board (EDB), Bahrain’s non-oil sector which constitutes more than 80% of Bahrain’s GDP reaching 5.0% grew noticeably above projections in the first quarter of 2015.
The report also highlighted broad-based real GDP growth of 2.9% on an annual basis, and strong labour market activity, with employment increasing by 5.0% compared with the same period in 2014.
The report observed a year-on-year growth rate of 8.3% in the social and personal services sector, overtaking the hotels and restaurants sector as the fastest-growing sector in 2014. The social and personal services sector is primarily made up of private sector healthcare and education activities. The manufacturing sector also saw 5.9% year-on-year growth.
Despite global economic challenges, the report finds that forward-looking indicators point to a high degree of continuity in the regional non-oil economy, reflecting the strength of key structural growth drivers and the commitment of regional governments and investors to long-term projects.
Strong growth of 7.5% year on year was reported in the construction sector, which is in line with the sector’s momentum that became apparent in the second half of last year and reflects continued infrastructure activity. Growth in the transport and communications sector followed closely with a 7.3% year on year expansion.The report also found that infrastructure activity had a marked effect on the labour market. The increase in total employment occurred at its quickest pace since Q2 2013, and was driven by the private sector, which represented 89% of the annual growth in total job creation during Q1. A fall in the unemployment rate was also reported in the first quarter of 2015, reaching 3.5% in March.

Bahrain is set to invest over US$22 billion in key infrastructure projects over the coming years, which aims to spur public and private sector participation across the manufacturing, energy, healthcare and education sectors. This includes a commitment to build 25,000 housing units over the coming four-year period.
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The Kingdom of Bahrain is the Guest of Honour at "China International Fair for Investment & Trade" Expo

Posted on by edbclient
October 29, 2015

A high level Bahrain business delegation, organised by the Economic Development Board (EDB), has concluded a successful ten day road show to China. The delegation’s visit resulted in the signing of 15 agreements with Chinese businesses and trade organisations, further strengthening economic and trade ties between the two countries. The EDB also organised two forums to highlight the kingdom’s business environment in Xiamen and Beijing.

The latest visit builds on the historic visit to China by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa in September 2013.  In 2014, an EDB business delegation visited China and 13 agreements were signed between leading government and private sector organisations from both countries to promote closer economic ties.
Over the course of the 10 days, the delegation visited a number of major commercial centres in China including Xiamen and Beijing. In each location, Bahraini business executives and Government representatives conducted meetings with Chinese officials, private sector leaders and Chinese businesses looking to access the Gulf market.
In addition, the delegation took part in the China International Fair for Investment & Trade (CIFIT) expo, led by His Excellency Zayed R. Alzayani, Minister of Industry and Commerce, at which Bahrain was the first country in the Middle East to be guest country of honour. The Bahrain Pavilion at CIFIT showcased Bahrain’s open business environment, investment opportunities and the advantages Bahrain offers Chinese and other international investors.
The Bahrain Pavilion was organised by the EDB in cooperation with strategic partners Tamkeen, UNIDO, Bahrain Airport Company, ALBA, Batelco, National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), Kuwait Finance House, and Al Salam Bank. Chinese companies Huawei and Chinamex also participated while Bahraini SMEs representing sectors including manufacturing, ICT and tourism, amongst others, were also featured.
Members of the delegation also participated in the China-Arab States Expo, the biennial gathering between China and Arab countries, in Yinchuan, the capital of the Ningxia autonomous region.  Agreements signed during the visit include:
  • Three letters of intent signed between the Bahrain EDB and Chinese companies, announcing plans to establish operations in Bahrain to access the fast-growing Gulf market. The companies are: Jinlou Water, World Wide Logistics and Baoshang Bank, an “A” level credit rated bank in China
  • The Bahrain EDB also signed four MoUs during the visit, which aim to establish even stronger trade ties and bilateral cooperation between Bahrain and China. MoUs were signed with: China International Investment Promotion Centre- Xiamen; the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT- China); the China Arab International Exchange Centre; and the China Arabia Economic Cultural Exchange Association (CAECEA)
  • An agreement was signed between the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade – Fujian (CCPIT-Fujian), to enhance bilateral cooperation
  • Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society and the Xiamen Association of Women Entrepreneurs signed a MoU that looks to establish a practical framework for cooperation for the empowerment and entrepreneurship of businesswomen in the private sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain and Xiamen
  • Projects Construction Company W.L.L signed a MoU with CMEC, to encourage exploration of development and construction opportunities in the Kingdom. CMEC is to provide project finance while Projects Construction Company will represent the joint venture locally and act as the main contractor for construction projects in Bahrain
  • Chinamex signed five MoUs during the visit to China, to provide logistic services to the Bahrain Dragon City, which will open later this year. The agreements will see the companies provide Dragon City with import and export services, the building of an online sales network and the provision of e-commerce services for the tenants. The five companies were: Fujian Quanzhou Dragon City Import & Export Trading Company; Beijing Dragon Commerce Company; China Dragon Mart Information Technology Company; Henan Lotus Flower Company; and xbniao.com
Mr. Khalid Al Rumaihi, Chief Executive of the EDB, commented on the conclusion of the roadshow:
“This has been an extremely successful visit, as demonstrated by the announcement that three Chinese businesses will look to establish operations in the Kingdom and the large number of MoUs signed between influential public and private sector Bahraini organisations and their Chinese counterparts.
Mr. Al Rumaihi added: “Huge opportunities can be made possible by closer cooperation between China and the GCC; two of the world’s fastest growing emerging markets.  Bahrain has some of the most competitive operating costs in the region, minimal restrictions on foreign investment and ownership and a tried and tested regulatory environment, all of which has created a highly favourable environment for international businesses.  The EDB looks forward to assisting many more Chinese companies to set up in Bahrain and take advantage of the benefits on offer here.”
The delegation held high level meetings with Chinese government officials including Fujian Governor Mr. Su Shulin, Shenzhen Governor Mr. Xu Qin and Vice Mayor of Xiamen Madam Ni Chao. They also met with high ranking officials from leading Chinese companies including Air China, China Investment Cooperation, Guangzhou Automobile Cooperation (GAC), China Equity and China Machinery Engineering Cooperation (CMEC), amongst others.
Bahrain was the first country in the Gulf to diversify its economy away from the hydrocarbons industry and has the experience and expertise to add significant value to Chinese businesses in a wide range of sectors, most notably in ICT and financial services.  Excellent transport infrastructure and a strategic geographical location also make Bahrain well suited to act as a connecting hub for the region and this is a major draw for manufacturing and logistics companies.
Further, Bahrain welcomed around 10 million visitors in 2014- leading to considerable potential in the retail and hospitality industries.  The Bahrain Dragon City, a Chinese-themed shopping mall operated by Chinamex that will host 500 Chinese businesses, will launch by the end of this year and represents the first large-scale retail project undertaken by a Chinese company in the Kingdom.
Moreover, Bahrain hosts the Middle East headquarters of Huawei and was host to the Bank of China’s first-ever Middle East office, the first time a Chinese bank established operations in the region.  In addition to many other leading Chinese companies with offices or facilities already established in Bahrain include: China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd; China Comm Service; Beijing Jangho Curtain Wall Co. Ltd; Daily Wealth Limited; Wuhan Lingyun Building Decoration Engineering Co; and CPIC.
The EDB has an international office at the Bahrain Embassy in Beijing and in Hong Kong, which provides investors with the necessary support and information about accessing China’s market.
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Bahrain ranked 5th in the Middle East & Africa for cost competitiveness on the “fDi Middle East & African Countries of the Future” Index

Posted on by edbclient

October 29, 2015

The fDi Middle East & African Countries of the Future Rankings for 2015/16, prepared by fDi Intelligence – a division of the Financial Times, has ranked Bahrain fifth overall, out of 63 countries, in this year’s report.
Manama was ranked in the top eight for all the categories, and ranked first overall for cost effectiveness and third overall for business friendliness. Bahrain also ranked first for FDI strategy, with the report recognising that since its creation, the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) has “operated to attract investment, help investors realise projects and ensure they are assisted once established.” According to fDi Intelligence data, the EDB helped attract 190 FDI projects to Bahrain between 2009 and 2014.
The rankings, compiled every two years using a detailed methodology, were based upon five categories: economic potential, business friendliness, human capital and lifestyle, cost effectiveness and connectivity. A sixth category, FDI strategy, was based on additional qualitative research and analysis.
The full Middle East & African Countries of the Future Rankings report can be found on the fDi Intelligence website: http://www.fdiintelligence.com/.
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Huawei & Chinamex: Bahraini-Chinese Relationships Evolving – Focus from Chinese Investors on the GCC and Bahrain

Posted on by edbclient

October 29, 2015

As Chinese investors are looking to expand globally, they are naturally looking towards the MENA region, and in particular, the GCC, one of the world’s fastest growing regions. Bahrain, with its unique competitive advantages and most diverse economy in the region, has welcomed a number of Chinese delegations over the past year. There has been a marked interest from investors in the Kingdom, who are keen on taking advantage of the Kingdom’s status as the freest economy in the region, with competitive operating costs and a highly skilled national workforce, in order to access the neighbouring Gulf markets.

Already a number of leading Chinese businesses have launched their regional headquarters in Bahrain, including Huawei, Bank of China, who launched their first-ever Middle East office in the Kingdom, and Chinamex, the operating company behind Dragon City, a Chinese-themed shopping mall scheduled to open by the end of this year. Dragon City represents the first large-scale retail project undertaken by a Chinese company in the Kingdom and will host 500 Chinese businesses.
In September 2015 a a Bahrain business delegation, organised by the EDB, visited the People’s Republic of China on a 10-day roadshow which drew much interest from Chinese investors. It led to the signing of 15 agreements, highlighting China’s interest in the Kingdom, and paving the way for further investments.
Mr. Paul Fengnan, Country Manager of Huawei Bahrain commented on Bahrain’s business environment saying: “Chinese investors’ confidence in the economies of the GCC is strengthening, particularly with regards to Bahrain’s diversified economy. The kingdom’s economy, much like the Chinese economy, has recently witnessed major developments in the Manufacturing, Education, Science, Healthcare and Tourism sectors. The latest announcements on plans to invest $22 USD billion in the coming years on infrastructure projects in Bahrain will improve Bahrain’s business environment, making it more attractive and sustainable for the Chinese investors.”
Mr. Fengnan lauded the EDB’s efforts to attract more foreign investment into the Kingdom, and the support they provide to potential investors who are looking to expand their business.
Mr. Fengnan added: “Since China’s launch of the ‘One Belt, One Road’ development strategy, more and more Chinese enterprises are being encouraged to expand abroad and are showing strong interest in international investment. Roadshows, forums and meetings are great points of interaction and events like those organised by EDB have, in the past, encouraged the Chinese business community to understand Bahrain’s open and friendly business environment. We believe additional points of hosted interactions will continue to encourage Chinese enterprises to build bilateral business relations with Bahrain.”
Mr. Fengnan also affirmed that the decision to move Huawei’s regional operations to the Kingdom in 2009 came as a result of the highly competitive operating costs and liberal business environment, as well as potential for 100% foreign ownership in most sectors by international investors, making Bahrain an ideal gateway to the rest of the GCC and the wider Middle East region.  He added: “We also enjoy the quality of life that Bahrain offers its guests living in the country. Over the years we have been able to contribute significantly to the development of the country’s ICT industry.”
“Bahrain and the wider GCC are a strategic growth market for Huawei globally. Led by a vision of building a better connected world, we have adopted a long-term approach to local business development, research, and CSR. In recent years this has included establishing an Ideas Innovation Centre for local customers, as well as participating in and sponsoring local events such as the 2014 Bahrain Air Show, the GCC U23 Football Tournament, and so on.”
“We have also been investing in local talent development through our Middle East IT Competence Center in Bahrain, and are working towards building Bahrain’s ICT talent,” added Mr. Fengnan.
On Huawei’s future plans in Bahrain, Mr. Fengnan revealed: “Currently, developing Huawei’s partnerships with leading telecommunications service providers in the Kingdom is one of our top priorities in order to provide better services. For examples, Huawei is cooperating with ‘VIVA’ to develop wireless networks with exceptional coverage and a great customer experience and we are working with ‘Batelco’ to build a Fiber broadband network. We are also working on providing a range of ICT solutions to customers in government, education, finance, energy, transportation and other vertical sectors.
“Some of the partners that we have enjoyed working alongside include the Bahrain Defense Force, the National Guard, University of Bahrain, NEC B.S.C., and others. We have also been busy expanding our consumer and device lineup. We are now the number one provider of MBB terminals in Bahrain and one of the top three mobile phone consumer brands in the country. Some of our future projects will include enhancing cooperation with Bahraini customers to build a better connected Bahrain, with new technologies and solutions like 4.5G mobile broadband and a host of smart city solutions.”
Mr. Patrick Zheng Shuo, General Manager of the Bahrain branch of Chinamex, stated that work is on track for the grand opening of Dragon City in Bahrain later this year:  “We are constantly striving to provide good services for the local visitors. A platform like ‘Dragon City’ will create a lot of investment opportunities for all related parties, not only in the fields of trading, but also for services, finance and real estate as we seek to attract more investment and business from China and the region.”
Mr. Zheng Shuo hailed the growing cooperation between Bahrain and China in recent years. Mr. Zheng Shuo also commended the efforts by the EDB to further strengthen this relationship, particularly following His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s visit to China in September 2013, which has greatly enhanced relations between the two countries.
Mr. Zheng Shuo also acknowledged Bahrain’s proactive initiative in responding to the “Silk Road” Strategy launched by the Chinese Government, allowing the Kingdom to work closely with Chinese companies on infrastructure project investments (such as Dragon City) to create a new trade hub in the region.
Mr. Zheng Shuo said: “China is becoming more globalised.  More and more Chinese companies and businessmen are expanding their operations worldwide, and the Middle East is one of their favored destinations. I think Chinese businessmen will look carefully into all options, taking into consideration operating costs, market scale, and commercial environment. Bahrain enjoys many advantages, including lower operating costs, a free economy, good financial facilities, and friendly and well-educated people, in addition to outstanding government services and high levels of transparency.
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