Integration push gains momentum as GCC seeks to protect $2.4 trillion economy
From coordination to integration, Gulf States step up economic unity agenda
The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Jassim Al-Budaiwi, said the GCC member states are pressing ahead with determination to deepen economic integration, as part of a broader strategy to achieve Gulf economic unity and strengthen their standing as a global hub for development and investment.
His remarks came during the 70th meeting of the Trade Cooperation Committee of GCC countries, held via video conference and chaired by Abdullah Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Trade of Bahrain. The session was attended by commerce ministers from across the Gulf bloc.
Al-Budaiwi noted that the meeting convened at a critical juncture, following recent regional tensions, stressing such developments demand a shift from traditional coordination to a more advanced level of practical integration and unified response.
He emphasized the importance of safeguarding vital sectors and ensuring their continuity with efficiency and stability in the face of escalating challenges.
Al-Budaiwi underscored that building a resilient and sustainable economic framework requires enhanced joint cooperation and deeper integration among GCC countries.
Efforts are ongoing to accelerate development projects, remove trade barriers, boost intra-regional commerce, and streamline the movement of goods and services, steps seen as essential to achieving the long-term goal of economic unity, said the GCC Secretary-General.
Highlighting key economic indicators, Al-Budaiwi revealed that the combined GDP of GCC countries reached approximately $2.4 trillion in 2025, positioning the bloc among the world’s top ten economies. In addition, intra-GCC merchandise exports surpassed $146 billion in 2024, marking a robust annual growth rate of 9.8 percent and reflecting the increasing dynamism of regional trade.
The Secretary-General also extended appreciation to Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for his leadership and support, noting the role of Bahrain in facilitating the success of joint Gulf initiatives during its current presidency of the GCC Supreme Council.
The meeting reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to advancing economic cooperation and strengthening integration mechanisms, as GCC nations continue to position themselves as a cohesive and influential force in the global economic landscape.
