ISDS Case Map
GCC
Japan and the GCC are strengthening their economic ties with the successful completion of the first round of Free Trade Agreement negotiations. This milestone signifies a significant step towards deeper economic collaboration, covering key areas such as trade in goods and services, customs procedures, and digital trade. The two regions are aiming to increase trade volumes and foster closer economic integration, with a focus on clean energy, healthcare, and digital innovation.
Deputy Governor of the Saudi General Authority of Foreign Trade is leading Saudi Arabia’s delegation participating in the first round of negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement between GCC countries and Japan, in Riyadh from 10 to 12 December.
For the UK, entering into a trade deal with the GCC would fly in the face of public opinion, offer few projected benefits, and send a worrying message about the priorities of the UK’s trade policy when it comes to human rights and climate.
European and Gulf officials are holding “informal” efforts to “revive” and even “upgrade” negotiations over a free trade agreement between the two blocks.
Qatar has called for expediting negotiations on a free trade agreement between the Gulf Co-operation Council or GCC and the European Union.
Saudi Arabia seeks a Bilateral Investment Treaty with India before advancing a Free Trade Agreement. However, differing stances may delay FTA negotiations with the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Saudi Arabia seeks a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) with India before advancing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). However, differing stances may delay FTA negotiations with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
The UK is in the final stages of negotiating a free trade agreement with a group of oil-rich Middle Eastern nations including Saudi Arabia.
New Zealand has reached a free trade agreement with the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council, which includes Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, a deal that will open up significant opportunities for Kiwi exporters in the Middle East.
Talks on an EU-GCC free trade agreement, which began 35 years ago, have been suspended since 2008. The UAE has urged the EU to start talks on a separate trade pact with it.
