Al Zeyoudi Addresses Global Trade Challenges And Dynamics At AMGFCC Dubai Event

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, participated in the Annual Meetings of the Global Future Councils and Cybersecurity 2025 from 14th to 16th October. During a panel titled ‘Taming Trade,’ he discussed global trade challenges due to tensions between major countries. He noted that tariffs, initially thought to impact only specific nations, have had widespread effects.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasised that reducing tariffs soon is improbable, calling this situation "the new reality." He compared trade flow to water, suggesting it adapts and finds new paths amid global tariffs and unpredictable policies. Countries are forming new alliances and diversifying supply chains as a response.

The panel also included Sarah Thorn from Walmart, who discussed the growth of Walmart’s marketplace and its support for small businesses. She highlighted the need for diverse sourcing options and expressed concerns about the challenges faced by small industries.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi further explained that data, supply chains, and cybersecurity are interconnected. He pointed out that artificial intelligence will be crucial in improving efficiency and advancing trade technology. This integration is expected to drive the next wave of technological advancements in trade.

Josephine Wolff from The Fletcher School at Tufts University; Simon Evenett from IMD in Switzerland; and Lauren Chung from Taneo Holdings in Hong Kong also contributed to the discussion. They explored how CEOs manage geopolitical uncertainties by enhancing supply chain resilience and fostering regional collaboration.

Corporate Strategies Amid Geopolitical Risks

The dialogue revealed that companies are increasingly adopting local production models and flexible manufacturing strategies. They are forming new trade partnerships beyond traditional systems, especially across Asia, China, and the UAE. This shift aims to strengthen innovation and regional collaboration.

The discussions also addressed integrating geopolitical risks into corporate risk management frameworks. Companies are considering product availability as a key factor in their strategies to navigate uncertain geopolitical landscapes effectively.

Event Organisation and Participation

The UAE Government organised the Annual Meetings of the Global Future Councils and Cybersecurity 2025 with the World Economic Forum (WEF). The event attracted over 700 experts from 93 countries across 37 Councils. The aim was to promote sustainable growth, enhance community well-being, and create opportunities for future generations.

The event underscored the importance of adapting quickly to changing global trade dynamics while maintaining traditional ties. Building regional partnerships is essential for pursuing economic stability amid evolving challenges in international trade relations.

With inputs from WAM