Interview: Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro
Where do you identify the main priorities to effectively help the country meet the goals of the Industrial Sector Strategy 2022-26?
ABDULLA BIN ADEL FAKHRO: The key priority is to facilitate the adoption of the Fourth Industrial Revolution while actively encouraging investment in technology infrastructure and improving transport and logistics networks. The industrial strategy emphasises the revitalisation of the market by encouraging local procurement, fostering industrial integration and collaboration, and expanding the industrial land area.
The plan includes having an industrial incubator and research and development centre. Other priorities encompass the adoption of renewable energy sources, significant investment in industrial training and research studies, and targeting multiple sectors for growth opportunities. These industries include downstream aluminium and petrochemicals, as well as blue and green hydrogen segments. Moreover, we are looking at growth prospects in food, pharmaceuticals and micro-electronics manufacturing.
What more can be done to promote local products internationally, and increase the contribution of the sector to 80% of overall exports by 2026?
FAKHRO: Bahrain aims to play a leading role in international trade by offering a launch pad for global exports. To achieve this, the country has implemented comprehensive strategies aimed at fostering an advanced, innovative and sustainable industrial sector. A key component of these efforts is the improvement of the regional import and export supply chain management system by using the solutions provided by Export Bahrain. By leveraging the Made in Bahrain trademark on core products and services, the kingdom aims to bolster the global competitiveness of local brands. In line with these goals, various initiatives have been launched to empower domestic companies, enabling them to capitalise on opportunities in international markets and significantly contribute to national exports.
To what extent might the US Trade Zone (USTZ) act as a catalyst for industrial activity in Bahrain?
FAKHRO: Manufacturing is considered one of the highest contributors to the economy and will continue to grow in importance in the coming decade. The segment not only generates employment opportunities for citizens but also facilitates knowledge and technology transfer while fostering robust international trade relations. Acknowledging its significance, Bahrain introduced the Industrial Sector Strategy 2022-26 as a vital component of its Economic Recovery Plan following the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. To further strengthen its ties with the US and ensure continued growth, Bahrain has initiated the development of the first phase of the USTZ. This plan will be executed in stages, covering an estimated area of approximately 110,000 sq metres.
In what ways can technology and digitalisation further increase the country’s attractiveness as an international investment destination?
FAKHRO: One of the key systems to facilitate the investors’ journey in Bahrain is the Ministry of Industry and Commerce’s online platform Sijilat. This platform has transformed business operations by enabling investors to electronically apply for, modify and renew their commercial registrations, providing transparency and clarity in licensing and registration procedures with government agencies.
Sijilat offers a range of services to support investors. These include the annual registration of existing and new factories and providing exemptions from Customs duties for industry inputs, including machinery, equipment and raw materials. The Government is investing in upgrades, including the use of AI and many new innovative features to strengthen the platform.
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