Sharjah Investment Forum Concludes With Global Call For Unified Finance And Stronger Regional Partnerships

The Sharjah Investment Forum's eighth edition concluded with a strong call from senior government officials and global experts to ensure transparency in investment markets. They emphasised the need for standardising environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosures. The forum also highlighted the importance of expanding regional partnerships and sustainable investments.

Organised by the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) alongside the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) and the UAE Ministry of Investment, the event attracted over 12,000 participants from 142 countries. The theme was "Transforming Our World: Investing for a Resilient and Sustainable Future."

Participants stressed that the green economy is central to future economic development. They urged turning environmental commitments into actionable policies. Successful green-job initiatives in Oman and Brazil were highlighted, while clean-energy infrastructure was identified as a significant challenge, especially in developing nations.

Experts at the forum affirmed that transparency in project financing is crucial for restoring investor confidence. They advocated for full institutional disclosure of investments and environmental emissions. Harmonising global financial and governance-disclosure standards was deemed necessary for market comparability.

Corporate leaders noted that AI and advanced technologies are already aiding emission reductions and improving industrial efficiency. The UAE has emerged as a global hub for energy and sustainability due to its strategy balancing growth with environmental responsibility.

Speakers recommended innovative financing tools like pilot funds and green sukuks (Islamic green bonds) to channel investments into sustainable projects. They emphasised that thorough institutional reform is key to long-term economic development.

Regional Cooperation

Government figures highlighted regional cooperation's role in addressing economic challenges. Flexibility and quick adaptation to change are vital for building resilient economies. The UAE’s experience with 13 free-trade agreements serves as a model for opening new markets.

The forum underscored integrated supply chains' value in entering new markets and attracting quality investment. It called for more responsive systems, faster processes, welcoming policies for talent, and continuous service support from project inception through expansion.

Consumer Behaviour Impact

Consumer behaviour significantly impacts the success of the green economy. Sixty percent of young people are willing to pay more for eco-friendly products, highlighting a shift towards sustainable consumer choices.

The forum's outcomes will help shape the global investment agenda through concrete recommendations promoting sustainability, equitable partnerships, green finance, and transparent governance to foster worldwide economic balance.

The event reflected on Sharjah's role as a global platform for economic dialogue. It bridges international expertise with the UAE’s development vision, serving as a hub for capital, innovation, and human potential.

With inputs from WAM