Bahrain thrives with 38 new factories and major investments

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s industrial sector is on an impressive trajectory. Over the past year, the number of factories has surged by 38, bringing the total to 857, according to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

This wave of industrial activity has driven investment levels in Bahrain’s industrial zones past BD3.7 billion.

These zones, spanning 14.5 million square metres, are now 90% occupied. The ministry has rolled out a new leasing model to support this growth.

Lease

contracts are now structured based on an approved template, with rental rates varying by activity.

Leases For industrial operations, leases are set for 25 years at a rate of BD1 per square metre annually. For logistical activities, the lease period is 15 years at BD4 per square metre per year.

The ministry’s push to enhance Bahrain’s industrial capacity is visible in several development projects.

In a memorandum to the legislative authority, the ministry detailed infrastructure projects under the industrial sector strategy (2022-2026).

Initial investment

These include the Bahrain International Investment Park and the US Trade Zone, with an initial investment of BD4.5 million, slated for completion by September 2024.

In Salman Industrial City, the ministry is managing the development of advanced sanitation facilities with an initial cost of BD10.2 million, set to finish by December 2025.

The road networks in industrial areas are being upgraded with an initial budget of BD2.5 million, expected to be completed by December 2024.

Sewage network

Additionally, a sewage network in the Al-Mazara’a and Al Lahsi industrial areas is in the planning stages, with an initial cost of BD230,000 and a target completion date of December 2024.

A main power station is also being constructed in the east of Salman Industrial City at an initial cost of BD9.75 million, though the completion date is still under review.

These developments indicate that Bahrain is not just participating in the global industrial landscape; it’s aiming to be a significant player.