GCC chief: Gulf integration key to tackling economic crises

Jasem Mohammed Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, said that strengthening connectivity between transport networks and logistics services across GCC countries is a fundamental pillar for safeguarding Gulf economic security and ensuring the continued flow of trade and goods.

Speaking at the 30th meeting of GCC transport and communications ministers in Manama, Albudaiwi stated that integrating Gulf capabilities and diversifying supply routes enhance the bloc’s ability to confront crises and maintain market stability.

He noted that rapid changes, disruptions in maritime corridors, and rising shipping and insurance costs have underscored the strategic importance of the transport and logistics sector in supporting market stability and sustaining trade flows. He stressed the need for greater Gulf coordination to improve responsiveness to these developments.

Albudaiwi pointed out that GCC countries’ investments in developing land, air, and sea transport sectors, as well as infrastructure and logistics facilities, have boosted the efficiency of the transport system and supported economic activity. He added that the transport and storage sector in the GCC achieved real growth of 5.7% in 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing non-oil sectors.

He said that upcoming priorities include enhancing integration between transport and logistics systems, diversifying transport and supply routes, and raising preparedness and joint coordination to address crises, thereby increasing supply chain resilience and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods and products.

Albudaiwi referred to directives from GCC leaders during the 19th consultative summit of the Supreme Council in Jeddah on April 28, 2026, to prepare a study aimed at boosting logistics integration among member states, noting that the meeting reviewed progress on this study.

He affirmed that the GCC Railway Project, targeted for completion by the end of 2030, is a strategic initiative supporting Gulf integration, as it will facilitate passenger and cargo movement, link land transport networks with ports and logistics centers, enhance the efficiency of the Gulf transport system, and boost its competitiveness.