Tamkeen Facilitates Risk-Free Opportunities for International Economic Exchange.
30 Bahraini companies recently took the business trip of a lifetime, traveling to China with the express purpose of cementing business connections and enhancing diplomacy between the two countries. In September, Tamkeen sponsored an extraordinary effort of coordinated international goodwill: The China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CFIT) in Xiamen, China. Bahraini entrepreneurs, CEOs, and business owners traveled as representatives of the Kingdom’s official economic and diplomatic delegation to China. The goal was to promote cooperation at the highest international level, and participants were able to discover firsthand the intricacies of communication across significant cultural borders—all with the secure facilitation and financial backing of Tamkeen.
I used to think that doing business in China was very complicated due to language and cultural barriers, but when I had the opportunity to encounter Chinese companies and entrepreneurs, I was offered many chances for collaboration.
Participants said they were surprised to encounter fewer challenges than anticipated. Sager Al Moawda of Dalla Bahrain talked about his experience: “I used to think that doing business in China was very complicated due to language and cultural barriers, but when I had the opportunity to encounter Chinese companies and entrepreneurs, I was offered many chances for collaboration.”
Companies attending CFIT were able to establish connections with Chinese companies and investors via strategic B2B sessions. This resulted in international exchange at its finest. Abdul Aziz Bin Hind of Bin Hindi Informatics signed an agreement with a major Chinese manufacturer. “CIFIT provided a new avenue to Bahraini businesses—a unique geophysical position that provided access to large markets in the Middle East. There was a progressive outlook, and facilities comparable to any developed country.”
The realities of international contact-building required significant effort and patience from everyone involved, but the experience nonetheless proved extremely rewarding, as Bahraini participants reported positive impressions of the Chinese work ethic, motivation, and willingness to do business. In return, Bahraini businesses were showcased in a manner designed to be exceptionally appealing to potential Chinese investors.
Return trips and consistent outreach are sure to produce deepened connections, allowing Bahrain to build upon this preliminary platform while creating networks for future trade. Tweaks and adjustments remain on the table for the future. Abdul Aziz Bin Hind said, “We strongly believe that all future participants will see greater benefits if a large number of interpreters are available. The rest of the parameters remain the same as any other international negotiation.”
The way Bahrain presented the companies was very attractive for the Chinese market. We as a standalone hotel attended for the first time, and we met with a decent response.
Abdul Hameed Al Halwachi of Al Safeer Hotel closed deals involving online travel bookings, China Air, and travel agents/tour operators. “The way Bahrain presented the companies was very attractive for the Chinese market. We as a standalone hotel attended for the first time, and we met with a decent response. We need to continue to be there to establish better business relationships with our contacts.”
As the realm of human experience becomes increasingly and inarguably global, Bahrain is meeting the challenge by following through on a firm commitment to advancement, opportunity, and prosperity for the private sector.