Doha: The French-Arab Chamber of Commerce (CCFA), a pivotal institution in fostering trade relations between France and Arab nations, is playing a significant role in enhancing economic exchanges and partnerships across public and private sectors.
According to Qatar News Agency, the CCFA was established in 1970, initiated by a former state minister in the government of General Charles de Gaulle alongside the representative of the Arab League in Paris. The organization provides a platform for collaboration between French firms and Arab private sector representatives. Its board of directors includes representatives from French firms, national chambers of commerce, and Arab business owners.
The CCFA's core functions include legitimizing export documents to Arab countries, offering insights into investment opportunities and market developments, and providing professional counseling to support firms in export operations and global expansion. Additionally, the CCFA aims to streamline trade procedures and offer practical solutions for enterprises aiming to enter Arab and French markets.
Vincent Reina, President of the CCFA, speaking to Qatar News Agency, emphasized the organization's priority in ensuring French and Arab firms are well-positioned to collaborate effectively. He highlighted the vast economic potential of Arab nations and encouraged French firms to engage in partnerships based on integration and equality. The recent 5th France-Arab Countries Economic Summit in December 2024, organized by the CCFA, facilitated discussions on joint economic opportunities and challenges, with a focus on space, energy, AI, and environmental sustainability.
Reina noted the summit's extraordinary participation, with around 400 attendees, including several Arab delegations. He stressed the importance of creating a stable and strategic partnership with Arab nations amidst global challenges. The CCFA is implementing five initiatives, including establishing bilateral geographic committees and think-tanks to address market trends and environmental issues in the Middle East and North Africa region.
The French-Qatar strategic dialogue, which includes economic, diplomatic, security, and training aspects, aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the France 2030 economic plan. Reina affirmed CCFA's role in promoting Qatar as a destination for bilateral partnership through regular economic updates and seminars.
Despite a decline in trade volume between France and Qatar in recent years, Reina highlighted Qatar's position as France's fourth-largest partner in the Near and Middle East, demonstrating ample opportunities for enhancement. The Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) plays a significant role within the CCFA, with its chairman serving on the Executive Committee.
Reina expressed confidence in the future of the France-Qatar partnership, citing the need for annual consultations between stakeholders to address rapidly evolving regional and global economic conditions. He emphasized the importance of adapting to changes and the ongoing relevance of globalization, albeit with a modified approach to address its impacts, including those from AI and climate change.