GCC Nations Launch Industrial Center at Made in the GCC Forum
Gulf Cooperation Council members convened in Bahrain to launch the Gulf Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and extend customs duty exemptions for industrial inputs.
The Gulf Cooperation Council convened in Manama, Bahrain, from October 6 to 8, 2026, for a series of ministerial meetings and the inaugural Made in the GCC 2026 Forum and Exhibition. The gatherings focused on strengthening regional supply chains, industrial integration, and the adoption of artificial intelligence to reduce reliance on overseas suppliers.
Key outcomes from the sessions included the launch of the Gulf Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the extension of customs duty exemptions on industrial inputs through the end of 2027. The UAE delegation, led by Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, promoted domestic manufacturing growth following AED 260 billion in industrial exports in 2025. UAE officials emphasized a shift toward advanced manufacturing and the localization of supply chains.
Qatar participated through a delegation led by Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al-Thani, attending committees on commercial cooperation, industrial cooperation, and standardization. Qatar's presence included a national pavilion featuring over 20 manufacturers, while Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Sayed held consultations with Gulf entrepreneurs to discuss innovation and support for small and medium enterprises.
