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Arab News
6 days ago
- Business
- Arab News
UAE-Cuba economic ties poised for growth as first joint committee meets in Dubai
JEDDAH: Trade and investment relations between the UAE and Cuba are expected to deepen following the inaugural session of the Joint Economic Committee, which convened in Dubai to boost cooperation across multiple sectors, including biotechnology, renewable energy, and tourism. Organized under the framework of the trade, economic, and technical cooperation agreement signed earlier by both nations, the session marked a significant step forward in advancing bilateral economic engagement. The committee meeting was co-chaired by Abdullah Ahmed Al-Saleh, undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Economy, and Carlos Luis Jorge Mendez, Cuba's first deputy minister of foreign trade and foreign investment. According to the UAE's official news agency WAM, discussions centered on enhancing collaboration in agriculture, food security, infrastructure, transportation, logistics, cultural industries, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. Non-oil trade between the two countries has been steadily rising. It reached over $39.1 million in 2024—up more than 2 percent from the previous year and 46.4 percent compared to 2022, WAM reported. The agency added that trade during the first quarter of 2025 rose by 5.6 percent compared to the same period in 2024, and by over 25 percent from the fourth quarter of that year. More than 825 Cuban brands are currently operating in the UAE market. According to WAM, Al-Saleh said that bilateral ties continue to advance steadily, particularly in the economic and commercial spheres, adding: 'This reflects the visionary leadership of both nations in fostering growth and prosperity and in serving their shared interests.' He continued: 'The first session of the Joint Economic Committee between the two countries marks a key milestone in enhancing economic and investment relations in the coming period. It expands areas of cooperation in priority sectors, strengthens engagement between the Emirati and Cuban business communities, and explores promising market opportunities — contributing to the national goals of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision.' Attended by the ambassadors of both countries, the session concluded with an agreement to establish a joint framework that will oversee implementation of the committee's outcomes, ensuring the continuity of economic cooperation and shared growth. According to WAM, both sides also agreed to coordinate business forums and economic events, exchange trade delegations, and facilitate increased trade and investment flows between Emirati and Cuban companies. The agency added that the two parties proposed organizing joint meetings, seminars, and workshops involving investors, promotion agencies, and financial institutions to attract investment in high-priority sectors. 'They stressed the importance of advancing economic cooperation through new partnerships in entrepreneurship and the startup ecosystem, with the aim of accelerating SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) growth, expanding investments, supporting exports to international markets, and increasing their contribution to the national GDPs (gross domestic products) of both countries,' WAM added. Food security and agriculture were also top priorities, with both sides expressing interest in boosting trade in food commodities and agricultural products. They also committed to working together on sustainable farming, food processing, and agricultural technology. Tourism was highlighted as another strategic sector for collaboration. Both nations agreed to co-host exhibitions, events, and conferences to showcase their tourist and heritage destinations. They also discussed sharing expertise and data on tourism resources, statistics, and digital innovations. The committee's formation follows recent government restructuring in the UAE. Just over two weeks ago, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, vice president and prime minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, announced the creation of a Ministry of Foreign Trade, led by Thani Al-Zeyoudi. The Ministry of Economy was also renamed the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, now headed by Abdullah bin Touq Al-Marri.
Mid East Info
6 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
UAE and Cuba hold first session of their Joint Economic Committee to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, creative industries, agriculture, and food security
5.6 per cent growth in non-oil foreign trade was recorded between two countries during first quarter of 2025 UAE-Cuba relations continue to advance across multiple sectors. The Committee marks a key step in deepening economic cooperation and enhancing connectivity between the two nations' business communities Both sides agreed to promote and facilitate increased trade flows, while actively exploring joint investment opportunities in biotechnology, healthcare, renewable energy, tourism, and agriculture The session underscored the importance of building new partnerships in the entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystem, with the goal of accelerating SME growth in both countries and enabling their expansion into global markets A shared commitment was expressed from both sides to strengthen collaboration in food security and agriculture, while supporting efforts for sustainable farming, food processing, and the adoption of advanced agri-tech solutions Abu Dhabi, July 2025 – The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism and the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment of the Republic of Cuba convened the first session of the Joint Economic Committee in Dubai. The meeting aimed to deepen bilateral economic cooperation across a wide range of sectors of mutual interest, including trade, investment, energy, renewable energy, agriculture, food security, infrastructure, transport, logistics, creative and cultural industries, healthcare, tourism, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. The session also underscored the importance of fostering robust public-private sector trade partnerships to drive sustainable growth for both nations. The Committee was co-chaired by H.E. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, and H.E. Carlos Luis Jorge Méndez, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment of Cuba. The Committee is a key outcome of the trade, economic, and technical cooperation agreement signed between the two countries. The session was attended by H.E. Hazza Ahmed Al Kaabi, UAE Ambassador to Cuba; H.E. Norberto Escalona Carrillo, Cuban Ambassador to the UAE; along with senior government representatives from both nations. H.E. Abdullah Al Saleh highlighted that UAE-Cuban bilateral relations continue to progress steadily, particularly in the economic and commercial domains, in line with the leadership's forward-looking vision to promote mutual prosperity, growth and long-term strategic partnership. H.E. Abdullah Al Saleh, said: 'The convening of the first session of the Joint Economic Committee between the two nations marks a pivotal step in advancing economic and investment relations between the UAE and Cuba. It paves the way for broader cooperation across priority sectors, deeper engagement between the two countries' business communities, and unlocking promising opportunities in both markets, all supporting the UAE's strategic goals under the 'We the UAE 2031' vision.' During the meeting, both sides agreed to establish a joint working framework to oversee the implementation of committee outcomes that guide future cooperation between the two nations in the coming period, propelling it towards further growth and prosperity. They also committed to organising joint business forums and economic events, facilitating trade delegation exchanges, and identifying new avenues to expand bilateral commercial relation. Promoting investment opportunities in both markets: The UAE and Cuba reaffirmed their shared commitment to increasing trade flows and investment exchanges between Emirati and Cuban business communities. This also includes exploring opportunities in advanced economic sectors biotechnology, healthcare services, renewable energy, tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. Both parties proposed hosting joint meetings, seminars, and workshops involving investors, investment promotion agencies, and investment firms to facilitate investment in priority sectors and leverage the incentives offered by both countries. Entrepreneurship and Start-ups: Both nations emphasised the importance of advancing economic cooperation through the development of partnerships in the entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystem. This aims to accelerate the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), increase their investments, support their international expansion, and increase their contribution to national GDPs. Food Security and Agriculture: Food security and agricultural cooperation were identified as key priorities. The two sides agreed to enhance trade in food commodities and agricultural products, and collaborate on sustainable farming practices, food processing, and agricultural technology in the coming period. Tourism: The UAE and Cuba underscored the potential of tourism as a pillar of bilateral relations. They highlighted organising joint tourism exhibitions, events, and conferences in the coming period to showcase the two countries' major tourist attractions and historical landmarks. The cooperation will also involve sharing expertise on tourism development, compilation of tourism statistics, and digital innovations and technologies to enhance sector competitiveness. UAE-Cuba Trade and Investment Exchanges: Non-oil trade between the UAE and Cuba continues to gain momentum, surpassing USD 39.1 million in 2024, indicating an increase of over 2 per cent from 2023 and 46.4 per cent growth compared to 2022. In Q1 2025 alone, bilateral non-oil trade grew by 5.6 per cent compared to Q1 2024 and over 25 per cent from Q4 2024. Currently, more than 825 Cuban brands are actively operating within UAE markets.
Mid East Info
01-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Ministry of Economy and Emirates Intellectual Property Association Launch Training Programme to Accredit Trademark Registration Agents
Al Saleh: 'The Ministry is committed to advancing IP regulatory frameworks. The new partnership marks a significant step in strengthening the efficiency of trademark registration agents in the country.' Abu Dhabi, June 2025: The Ministry of Economy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Emirates Intellectual Property Association to strengthen collaboration in delivering a specialized training programme for UAE trademark agents. The initiative aims to equip participants with the technical and legal expertise required to earn certification, in line with Ministerial Decision No. 90 of 2024, which regulates trademark agent accreditation in the UAE. The memorandum was signed by H.E. Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy; and H.E. Major General Dr Abdulqadoos Abdulrazak Al Obaidli, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Excellence and Leadership at Dubai Police and Chairman of the Emirates Intellectual Property Association, in the presence of H.E. Dr Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Undersecretary for the Intellectual Property Sector at the Ministry of Economy. H.E. Abdullah Al Saleh, said: 'The Ministry of Economy remains committed to advancing the regulatory and legislative frameworks that govern intellectual property, a key sector driving the UAE's economic growth and competitiveness. Our collaboration with the Emirates Intellectual Property Association marks a significant step in strengthening the proficiency of UAE trademark agents. This initiative aims to increase their presence numbers in line with the best global practices and streamline registration processes to deliver exceptional service to trademark owners.' H.E. Major General Dr. Abdulqadoos Al Obaidli, Chairman of the Emirates Intellectual Property Association, said: 'We are proud to partner with the Ministry of Economy to launch an advanced training program that supports the government's efforts to develop skilled national IP professionals. The program, offered through our KHDA-accredited Dahai Khalfan Intellectual Property Centre and in collaboration with World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), guarantees world-class training standards. We have engaged leading IP experts and legal specialists to ensure participants receive comprehensive, practice-oriented knowledge.' H.E. added: 'The program addresses critical trademark topics including domestic and international regulations, the Madrid Protocol, registration processes, disputes, renewals, and mock official exams. This joint initiative reflects our shared commitment to equipping legal professionals with evolving trademark legislation and technical advancements, while bolstering the UAE's innovation ecosystem and global competitiveness.' The UAE's trademark sector continues to demonstrate robust growth, with 385,774 national and international trademarks registered as of May 2025, alongside 388 accredited agents. These figures underscore the UAE's position as a premier global trademark hub and a magnet for innovation-driven enterprises. Under the MoU, the Ministry of Economy will provide technical support and oversee trademark agent accreditation exams, while the Emirates Intellectual Property Association will deliver specialized training aligned with ministerial regulations. Together, they will equip participants with comprehensive knowledge of commercial registration procedures, ensuring adherence to the highest professional and ethical standards. The Ministry of Economy offers a dedicated 'Trademark Registration Agent' service through its website, enabling clients to apply for inclusion in the register of agents authorized to carry out trademark registration activities. This service is provided alongside the standard trademark registration offering.
Khaleej Times
04-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Ministry of Economy awards second collective music management licence to Music Nation
The UAE Ministry of Economy granted its second collective music management licence to 'Music Nation' during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Dubai. The licence authorises the organisation to manage the distribution of rights on behalf of music creators and performers, while also ensuring nationwide compliance among music platforms. The announcement was made during an event attended by Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property. The Ministry confirmed that the licence was issued in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 concerning copyright and related rights. It marks the continuation of the Ministry's efforts to strengthen intellectual property frameworks in the UAE, following the first collective management licence awarded to the Emirates Music Rights Association in April 2025. Al Saleh said, 'Under the vision of our wise leadership, the UAE has placed strategic emphasis on enhancing the competitiveness of its cultural and creative industries, driving their growth both regionally and globally. Recognising their vital role in national economic growth, we are committed to fostering public-private collaboration to cultivate an enabling environment for talent and innovation. By elevating the creative economy's legislative framework to world-class standards, we aim to expand the private sector's participation in it, in line with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries 2031.' The Under-Secretary said in his speech, 'The Ministry remains committed to establishing a world-class copyright governance system, drawing on international best practices. We are achieving this through strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks, fostering investment in creative sectors, and implementing robust collective management systems. These measures safeguard intellectual property rights while building creators' trust in the nation's creative ecosystem.' 'The collective music management licence serves as a catalyst for cultural innovation while safeguarding artists' intellectual property rights. Through establishing transparent revenue distribution systems and fair compensation mechanisms, it elevates the UAE's music industry - enhancing its global competitiveness and positioning our nation as a premier hub for creative enterprises,' he added. Al Saleh emphasised that awarding the licence to 'Music Nation' marks a strategic milestone in the UAE's commitment to fostering creativity. The initiative unlocks new opportunities for artists, writers, and producers while strengthening rights protection and leveraging creative-economy tools - ultimately positioning the sector as a key driver of national economic growth. Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini said, 'Our music industry is witnessing remarkable growth, fuelled by an expanding ecosystem of creative enterprises and world-class events. Dubai alone boasts 350 live music venues, while the national streaming market generated US$841.9 million in 2024 - projected to nearly triple to $2.3 billion by 2030. To sustain this momentum, the Ministry of Economy is prioritising robust legislative frameworks that will further catalyse the creative economy and foster artistic innovation.' He added, 'Building on last month's inaugural licence granted to the Emirates Music Rights Association, today marks another significant milestone with the official authorisation of Music Nation. We are actively collaborating with local and global partners, including industry associations and legal experts, to share best practices that drive sector growth. In tandem, we're expanding awareness initiatives to ensure artists, composers, and producers fully leverage these licences to protect both their creative works and financial interests.' 'Today marks a pivotal moment for the UAE and Music Nation,' said Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for Music Nation. 'After years of careful planning, Music Nation is positioned to become a cornerstone of music licensing, empowering the Emirates' vibrant creative industry. As an Emarati, I am honoured to establish a world-class music rights infrastructure that not only elevates local artists to greater heights, but also showcases our rich musical heritage and cultural traditions to the world. In partnership with industry leaders BMI and SoundExchange, our cutting-edge technology and services will protect music rights holders and propel the UAE's music economy to new frontiers.'
Business Wire
03-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Music Nation Approved by United Arab Emirates to Launch World-class Collective Management Organization, Providing Vital New Royalties for Music Rights Holders
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Music Nation Copyrights Management (Music Nation), a pioneer in music rights management in the United Arab Emirates, today announced the company received formal approval to license, collect and distribute royalties from public performance and neighboring rights, delivering a vital new source of revenue for music rights holders. With best-in-class tools, technology and leading industry partnerships with Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI), the largest performing rights organization in the world, and SoundExchange Inc., the recording industry's top digital global collective management organization, Music Nation will be the industry's first rights management organization capable of natively collecting performance, mechanical and neighboring rights. Music Nation is part of a broad UAE initiative to support the creation of a thriving music ecosystem and to elevate the region's music industry by protecting the rights of music creators and compensating them for the commercial use of their work. This vital new source of royalty revenue in the UAE will help recording artists, songwriters, composers and others create sustainable careers and ensure music creators, labels, publishers and other music copyright owners, both local and international, are compensated for the use of their work. 'Today marks a pivotal moment for the UAE and Music Nation,' said Chairwoman Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak. 'After years of careful planning, Music Nation is positioned to become a cornerstone of music licensing, empowering the Emirates' vibrant creative industry. As an Emarati, I am honored to establish a world-class music rights infrastructure that not only elevates local artists to greater heights, but also showcases our rich musical heritage and cultural traditions to the world. In partnership with industry leaders BMI and SoundExchange, our cutting-edge technology and services will protect music rights holders and propel the UAE's music economy to new frontiers.' His Excellency Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy, said, 'The Ministry continues its efforts to develop an advanced system for the governance of copyright and related rights, based on global best practices. This is achieved by developing regulatory and legislative frameworks, stimulating investment in creativity, and supporting effective collective management systems that ensure the protection of rights and enhance the confidence of creators and musicians in the country's creative climate. The collective management license for music plays an important role in promoting a creative culture in society, providing comprehensive protection for the intellectual property rights of musicians and artists, and providing mechanisms to ensure financial justice for artists and creators in the distribution of revenues and transparency in the collection and distribution of copyrights. This supports raising the competitiveness of the music industry in the country and making it an attractive destination for creative and cultural works worldwide.' Mike O'Neill, President and Chief Executive Officer of BMI, said, 'We are thrilled to partner with Rasha, the Music Nation team and SoundExchange to ensure that music creators in the UAE have the opportunity to turn their passion into their careers by being paid for their creative work. BMI has always been an unwavering advocate for the songwriters, composers and rights holders behind the songs the world loves, and we're excited to provide our music licensing infrastructure, expertise and deep experience fostering career development to benefit the region's incredible creators. There are endless possibilities ahead that Music Nation will deliver, and we look forward to a bright future together.' Michael Huppe, President and CEO of SoundExchange, said, 'This is a major milestone and a vote of confidence from the UAE Ministry of Economy in the combined abilities of Music Nation, SoundExchange, and BMI. We're excited to get to work establishing the region's premier collective management organization and serving creators with the same level of excellence we have for more than two decades in the U.S.' Music Nation will begin collecting royalties in the UAE for more than 2 million songwriters, composers, publishers, artists, sound recording owners and other music creators. The UAE and the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region remain the fastest-growing music market in the world, with the IFPI reporting the territory expanded in 2024 for a tenth consecutive year. Music revenue in MENA last year climbed by 22.8%, outpacing the global average of 5.9% growth. NOTE TO EDITORS: Photos from a ceremony the Ministry of Economy held on May 27, 2025 for Music Nation can be accessed HERE. Photos are Courtesy of the UAE's Ministry of Economy. About Music Nation Music Nation, a pioneer in music rights management in the UAE, licenses the rights of authors, publishers, sound recording owners and performers throughout the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These rights are referred to as neighboring rights (for sound recordings), public performance rights (for musical compositions) and mechanical reproduction rights (also for musical compositions). With world-class partnerships and technology, Music Nation is helping implement the UAE's vision for the protection and enforcement of musical copyrights by developing a world-class music licensing and royalty distribution infrastructure. Music Nation, with its partners BMI and SoundExchange, will help ensure that music creators and rights holders are fully and fairly compensated for the use of their work. For more information, visit
