Bahrain exports set for $42bln milestone

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: mail@newsobahrain.com

Bahrain’s exports are expected to rise to $42 billion this year, defying a regional downturn, with a trade surplus likely, according to a new Arab report. While some Gulf nations are facing challenges, Bahrain’s export figures are projected to continue growing into 2025.

The report from the Arab Investment & Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (DHAMAN) forecasts a 5.8% increase in Bahrain’s exports this year compared to 2023, bringing the total to BD15.81 billion.

Momentum This upward momentum is expected to carry into next year, with exports reaching $43.6 billion (BD16.42 billion), a further rise of 3.6%. Bahrain’s imports are also on the rise, with predictions that they will reach $33.9 billion (BD12.76 billion) in 2024 — up by 5.9% from last year.

This will leave the country with a trade surplus of BD3.66 billion. The trend is set to continue into 2025, with imports growing to $35.9 billion (BD13.52 billion), and a surplus of BD2.9 billion expected.

This positive performance contrasts with the broader regional picture. The report indicated that Arab exports are expected to dip by 0.4% this year, though they are forecast to bounce back by 4% in 2025.

Arab imports, however, are projected to grow by 6.1% in both 2024 and 2025. The report also pointed out disparities across the region.

Six major Arab economies are anticipated to see exports decline this year, while 12 other countries will experience various levels of growth, ranging from a staggering 77.8% rise in Sudan to a modest 0.2% in Jordan.

Next year looks more promising for the majority of Arab nations, with exports predicted to rise in 16 countries. Only two Gulf states are forecast to see a decline in 2025.