The first-ever Global Business Forum (GBF) ASEAN, a dedicated conference that focuses on trade and commerce between Dubai and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will kick start on December 8 in Dubai.
The two-day event, which will be held under the theme ‘The New Frontiers’, will bring together attendees from around the world to discuss new avenues of economic cooperation between the UAE and ASEAN countries.
Organized by Dubai Chamber in partnership with Expo 2020 Dubai, the event aims to explore the wealth of bilateral business opportunities that exist between Dubai and the 10-member ASEAN region.
Hamad Buamim President & CEO Dubai Chamber
“GBF ASEAN is the newest addition to Dubai Chamber’s flagship Global Business Forum, which explores emerging markets around the world. As Dubai welcomes the world for Expo 2020, it’s an ideal time to turn our attention to the dynamic and fast-growing ASEAN economies, which offer tremendous potential that UAE companies can benefit from.”
Among the issues under the spotlight at the inaugural GBF ASEAN include the technology opportunities in ASEAN countries that have risen from the pandemic, which pushed the region’s digital economy to exceed $100 billion for the first time, as well as those arising from the ASEAN region’s leader’s pledges to rebuild their countries with a focus on resilience, sustainability and regional cooperation, made at the 37th ASEAN Summit.
In light of the COP 26 Summit which was held last month, sustainability will be a major area of discussion at the forum, with both the UAE and ASEAN members committed to developing low-carbon economies. The built environment will be a key focus in conversations, with sustainable infrastructure estimated to be a $2.8 trillion investment opportunity over the next decade.
GBF ASEAN forms part of Dubai Chamber’s flagship Global Business Forum series, which was launched in 2013 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The series was started to provide Dubai’s business community with new opportunities and strengthen the emirate’s position as a global business hub, a dynamic center of commerce, and a gateway to new markets.
