Bahrain

Bahrain is home to numerous multinational firms with business in the Gulf, and is an important regional financial center. The country is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council and has a free trade agreement with the United States. Trade is highly important to the country’s economy and market conditions are improving. Canada and Bahrain have an established and growing trade and investment relationship. There is high potential for Canadian trade and investment opportunities in the country in all sectors, but most particularly in oil and gas, infrastructure and environment, light manufacturing, information and communication technologies, resources, and transportation. Canadian companies should be aware of restrictions on meat exports to Bahrain which must comply with existing Halal requirements.

Petroleum production and refining account for the majority of Bahrain’s export receipts. Aluminum is Bahrain’s second major export after oils. Other major segments of the country’s economy include the financial and the construction sectors. Bahrain is actively pursuing the diversification and privatization of its economy to reduce the country’s dependence on oil. Foreign investment is welcomed and benefits from modern infrastructure and efficient investment administration. Foreigners are permitted to own 100 per cent of new industrial and services companies with branches in Bahrain, without need for a local sponsor. EDC has developed relationships with financial institutions and major international customers in the country to open doors to Canadian companies in Bahrain.

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