The role of business associations in advancing industry interests in the GCC

Business associations are established for the sole reason of assisting businesses in any matter. They expand and improve services that are designed to facilitate their country’s trade with other markets and enhance the competitiveness of the private sector, as well as new initiatives launched by the government.

Major firms have long been active participants in business associations, using their organization to advance goals in a wide range of areas, from regulatory issues to research to industry image improvement. Small and emerging businesses, however, reap the benefits only if their priorities and needs are properly aligned with those of the organization.

The panelists will unravel the core mechanisms of associations’ influence on a corresponding business environment:

• Protection, preservation and promotion of business by Chambers of Commerce

• The role of bilateral business councils in accessing governments from both sides

• Possibilities for individual advocacy within business associations and Chambers of Commerce