Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI) has hosted a high-level delegation of heads of chambers of commerce from the Balkan region at a meeting at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi.
The meeting of business leaders focused on exploring opportunities for economic and trade cooperation and broadening investment partnerships.
Strengthening Economic Relations
Both sides agreed on the importance of joint efforts to open new markets, launch future projects, and consolidate partnerships that serve shared interests and support sustainable growth.
The meeting was attended by Ali Mohamed Al Marzooqi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, alongside representatives from key national entities and private sector.
The Balkan delegation included presidents of the chambers of commerce from Albania, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, North-West Macedonia, American Balkan, and Western Balkans 6 Chamber Investment Forum.
The Balkans stand as a key partner for the UAE in its journey toward sustainable development. Non-oil trade between both sides has expanded at a compound annual growth rate of 8.7% over the past five years, reaching nearly $1.9 billion in 2024.
Imports from the region reached an impressive $1.3 billion, reflecting the strength of enduring partnerships with Romania, Slovenia, and Bulgaria. These nations continue to play a pivotal role in supplying the UAE market with essential commodities including wheat, timber and vital medicines.
Meanwhile, the UAE's non-oil exports have demonstrated exceptional growth, recording a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.5%.
Albania, Romania, and Croatia have emerged as key destinations for UAE exports, particularly aluminium and steel products. Additionally, re-exports have experienced robust expansion, rising at a CAGR of 9%, fuelled by dynamic trade in vehicles and advanced technology.
Leaders' Remarks
Al Marzooqi said cooperation with the Balkan countries fully aligns with the Abu Dhabi's vision to diversify its economy and reinforce its position as a leading business centre.
He highlighted the emirate's flexible, diversified economy and its competitive, world-class business environment built on sustainability, innovation and openness to international collaboration. These advantages, he noted, have made Abu Dhabi an attractive destination for quality investments and a driver of growth in renewable energy, advanced industries, technology, and the knowledge economy.
He pointed out that Balkan markets represent promising ground for expanding and diversifying UAE exports, offering national businesses greater access to new consumer markets in Europe.
Al Marzooqi underlined the Chamber's role as a strategic enabler of economic development by promoting competitiveness, opening new markets, and attracting foreign direct investment.
He explained that ADCCI's 2025-2028 roadmap is designed to empower entrepreneurs and SMEs and enhance their contribution to the national economy in line with government strategies.
Valentina Marku, President of Albanian Business Council Abu Dhabi, and head of the Balkan delegation described the visit as the beginning of a new stage in cooperation with ADCCI, affirming that Balkan countries view Abu Dhabi as a strategic partner and a leading investment destination.
He expressed optimism about advancing cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, clean energy, technology, and healthcare, emphasising that the UAE's diversified and resilient economy serves as a model capable of inspiring growth throughout Balkan markets.
Sectoral Presentations
The forum also featured presentations by national institutions, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and Emirates Development Bank (EDB). These partners showcased Abu Dhabi's business environment, investment opportunities, and growth enablers for international companies.
Discussions covered emerging areas of cooperation such as advanced industries, automotive and auto components, AI-driven innovations, renewable energy (with emphasis on solar potential in the Balkans), digital technologies, blockchain, biotechnology, medical sciences, food and water security, and organic agriculture.
Towards Long-Term Partnerships
Both sides agreed that the meeting represented a significant step towards establishing long-term partnerships that will benefit both parties and create new opportunities for collaboration. The Balkan delegation praised Abu Dhabi's advanced investment climate, while ADCCI leaders described the relationship as a model of economic integration and effective diplomacy.
