GULF COOPERATION COUNCIL
Trump’s tariff rhetoric sets backdrop for India’s pharma confidence at iPHEX 2025
Alongside the exhibition, the Global Regulatory Conclave, held with CDSCO and Pharmexcil, spotlights reliance practices, pharmacopoeia convergence, and regulatory pathways to reinforce India’s standing in global pharma.
Trump begins to feel the heat for India bullying
Donald Trump's handling of US-India relations is facing intense criticism from both domestic and international circles, jeopardizing a long-standing bipartisan partnership. His imposition of tariffs, alignment with Pakistan due to personal business interests, and perceived disregard for India's strategic importance are raising alarms.
Qatar wants to negotiate trade pact with India: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced that a Free Trade Agreement with Oman will be finalized soon, with Qatar and Saudi Arabia also expressing interest in similar agreements. He assured exporters of government support amidst global uncertainties and highlighted efforts to diversify exports. Goyal also noted progress in FTA talks with the European Union.
Oman eyeing 1 million tourists per year from India, says official
Oman is actively working to attract one million Indian tourists annually, building on the 700,000 visitors from India last year. The focus will be on promoting weddings, MICE sector events, and adventure tourism through multi-channel campaigns. Oman emphasizes India as a priority market due to its cultural and economic ties, showcasing its diverse landscapes and rich heritage at roadshows.
FMCG startup Mitra raises Rs 14 crore in round led by Bestvantage Investments
FMCG startup Mitra has raised Rs 14 crore in a bridge round led by Bestvantage Investments, with participation from existing investors. The Delhi-based firm will use the funds to scale operations, expand its product range, and enter Gulf Cooperation Council markets.
Two distinct choices stare at Indian firms looking to escape tariff hit
Indian companies are rethinking their investment plans because of new tariffs imposed by the United States. Firms are considering buying companies or building factories in countries with lower tariffs. Some are moving production to places like UAE and Mexico. Pearl Global and Titan are adjusting their strategies. Welspun Corp is expanding its US facility.
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Kuwait removes minimum salary requirement for family visit visas
Kuwait has eliminated the minimum salary requirement for expatriates seeking family visit visas, broadening eligibility to include relatives up to the fourth degree by blood and third-degree in-laws. Visitors can now enter Kuwait via any mode of transport and airline. This reform aims to simplify procedures and enhance flexibility within the visa system.
New Kuwait visa rules allow digital applications and flexible entry
Kuwait has implemented a new tourist visa system, categorizing applicants into four groups based on nationality, residency, or event participation. This initiative streamlines entry procedures by removing the national carrier requirement and introducing an online visa platform. The digital transformation also simplifies family and business visit applications, enhancing Kuwait's accessibility for tourists and business travelers.
NRIs' term insurance purchases from India double in last 2 years: Report analysis
NRIs are increasingly purchasing term insurance plans from India, with purchases doubling between FY22 and FY26. Competitive premiums, long-term policy options, and rupee-denominated benefits are driving this trend, particularly among salaried professionals and business owners in the UAE and GCC region.
Visa-on-arrival now available in Kuwait for GCC foreign residents
Kuwait has initiated a new policy allowing foreign residents of GCC countries to obtain tourist visas on arrival. This decision, effective immediately, aims to ease travel for expatriates holding valid residency permits from GCC member states. The move is expected to boost Kuwait's tourism sector and align with regional efforts to improve connectivity and diversify economies.
Indian auto component makers have huge export opportunities in markets of Brazil, Colombia, Poland, Africa: Report
A report suggests Indian auto component makers can boost exports. The independent aftermarket segment offers big potential. Brazil, Indonesia, and Colombia are key markets. Africa also presents opportunities due to demand for lower-priced parts. The UAE serves as a trade gateway. Indian exporters can leverage cost advantages. They can strengthen their global presence in high-growth markets.
India, Oman free trade agreement likely to be announced soon: Official
India and Oman are poised to finalize a free trade agreement soon, with the text currently being translated into Arabic for Omani cabinet approval. Both nations intend to jointly announce the conclusion and signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), potentially in less than two to three months. Bilateral trade between the countries exceeded USD 10 billion in 2024-25.
Zero buffer, maximum impact: India faces US President’s tariff heat
In a move to reinforce his "America First" policy, President Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on all Indian goods, effective August 7, causing alarm among Indian exporters. The US is India's largest export market, and this action threatens $25 billion worth of products, hitting sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and auto components.
India-US ties may be under strain, but turning to China or Russia is unwise
Following Trump's disruption of the India-US relationship, some in India are considering closer ties with China and Russia. However, the article argues that such a move would be opportunistic and strategically unwise, given China's demonstrated efforts to hinder India's economic growth and manufacturing ambitions.
Agritech investments and incubators: Nurturing the next generation of food innovators in Dubai
As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) pursues its ambitious National Food Security Strategy 2051, the emirate has emerged as a global model for sustainable food innovation, which also means interesting opportunities for India’s next-gen food innovators. Here’s how.
VA Tech WABAG bags Rs 2,332 cr deal for mega desalination plant in Saudi Arabia
VA Tech WABAG Ltd. has been awarded a USD 272 million contract to construct a 300 MLD seawater desalination plant in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, by the Saudi Water Authority. The project involves design, engineering, supply, construction, and commissioning on a greenfield site. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, reinforcing WABAG's leadership in desalination.
Titan shares in focus after $283 million acquisition of GCC-based Damas Jewellery
Titan Holdings is set to acquire a 67% stake in Damas LLC for AED 1,038 million ($283 million), gaining a strategic presence across all six GCC countries—UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The remaining 33% held by Mannai may be acquired post-December 31, 2029, under mutually agreed terms.
Titan to acquire 67% stake in Dubai-based Damas for $283 million in strategic Gulf expansion
Titan Company has acquired a 67% stake in Damas LLC, a Dubai-based luxury jeweler. The deal is worth $283.2 million. This acquisition will expand Titan's presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The company aims to strengthen its position in the global jewellery market. The deal is expected to be completed by January 31, 2026.
Titan to acquire 67% stake in Gulf retailer Damas Jewellery for $283 million
Titan Company will acquire a 67% stake in Damas LLC, a prominent jewellery business in the Gulf Cooperation Council region. The deal, valued at $283 million, will expand Titan's presence across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other GCC countries. Titan aims to accelerate its jewellery business in the region.
Saudi Arabia sets one-year limit for foreign drivers using international licences
Saudi Arabia implements new driving rules. These rules apply to foreign visitors. Visitors can drive for one year using foreign licenses. Licenses must match the vehicle category. Accredited bodies must translate licenses. GCC nationals are exempt from these rules. International permits issued within GCC countries are not valid. The changes aim to streamline road safety regulations.
Malabar Gold sets up new manufacturing facility in Hyderabad
Malabar Gold & Diamonds has inaugurated a fully integrated jewellery manufacturing unit in Hyderabad, Telangana, consolidating key operations under one roof. This largest unit, among its 14 facilities, boasts an annual capacity of 4.7 tonnes of gold and 1.8 lakh carats of diamond jewellery.
What the Middle East’s Schengen-style GCC Unified Visa means for travellers
The Gulf countries will soon launch a unified tourist visa. This visa allows travellers to visit six Gulf nations. These nations are Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. The visa aims to boost tourism and ease travel. It is similar to Europe's Schengen visa. The new visa will help travellers explore the Gulf region easily.
The GCC and the Global South: Voices in an age of civilisational crisis
Humanity faces an existential clash of civilizations, particularly in the Indo-Mediterranean region, the birthplace of major religions. The Gulf Cooperation Council emerges as a stabilizer in the Islamic world, while BRICS offers a platform for the Global South. India's civilizational diplomacy and the GCC's evolving role could shape a more inclusive global order, reflecting the voices of the majority.
Emirates NBD eyes RBL Bank stake for India, Asia play
Dubai lender exploring significant minority holding via primary capital infusion; RBL stock surged 21% in past month, over 64% in 6 months.
Now perform Umrah any day of the year; if you’re from the GCC
Saudi Arabia now allows citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to perform Umrah year-round, entering through various ports with permits obtained via the Nusuk app. This initiative streamlines pilgrimage procedures, offering multiple visa options, including Umrah, transit, and tourist visas. Pilgrims must secure permits through Nusuk to access holy sites and pray at Rawdah Al Sharifah.
Oman becomes first Gulf state to launch income tax in bid to reduce oil dependence
Oman will introduce a 5% income tax in 2028 on high earners, becoming the first Gulf state to do so. The tax targets individuals with annual incomes exceeding $109,000, impacting roughly the top 1% of earners. This move aims to diversify revenue streams and reduce dependence on oil, potentially influencing other GCC nations to implement similar fiscal reforms.
Gulf ambassadors raise concern about safety of nuclear facilities amid Israel-Iran conflict
Gulf Cooperation Council ambassadors conveyed their apprehension to the U.N. nuclear watchdog chief, Rafael Grossi, regarding the safety of nuclear facilities near their nations amidst the ongoing Israeli-Iranian tensions. During a Vienna meeting, the ambassadors cautioned Grossi about the potentially severe consequences of targeting these facilities, highlighting concerns about contamination following a mistaken Israeli military statement regarding the Bushehr plant.
India, Gulf Cooperation Council adopt Action Plan for joint activities across sectors
India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) adopted a Joint Action Plan 2024-2028 during their first Foreign Ministers meeting in Riyadh. The plan covers diverse areas such as health, trade, and security. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called for a ceasefire in Gaza and highlighted the importance of India-GCC ties.
Assocham launches Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter in Dubai
It was launched here yesterday with an aim to develop vibrant economic, social and cultural bonds between India and the GCC nations.
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