IACCIA, ASSOCHAM sign MoU to strengthen India-Arab ties

In a significant step towards advancing India-Arab economic relations, the India & Arab Countries Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture (IACCIA) and the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) on 30 July 2026 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote bilateral trade, investment, industrial collaboration, and business partnerships between India and the 22 Arab countries.

The MoU was signed by Saurabh Sanyal, Secretary General, ASSOCHAM, and Dr Waiel Awwad, Secretary General, India & Arab Countries Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture (IACCIA).

The MoU establishes a strategic framework for cooperation between the two organisations aimed at facilitating Business-to-Business (B2B) engagement, investment promotion, trade missions, policy dialogue, sector-specific partnerships, and market access initiatives that will benefit businesses in India and across the Arab world. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to leveraging India’s expanding network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and comprehensive economic partnerships to unlock new commercial opportunities for Indian and Arab companies.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr Waiel Awwad, Acting Secretary General of IACCIA, emphasised that the partnership marks an important milestone in strengthening institutional cooperation between India’s business community and the Arab world.

“The future of India-Arab relations must move beyond traditional trade towards long-term investment partnerships, integrated value chains, technology transfer, innovation, and sustainable economic cooperation. This MoU is not merely an agreement between two institutions; it is a commitment to creating practical business opportunities that connect Indian enterprises with the dynamic markets of the Arab world,” Dr Awwad said.

The partnership also aims to enhance awareness of investment opportunities created by India’s growing network of trade agreements and strengthen engagement with sovereign wealth funds, financial institutions, investment agencies, chambers of commerce, and private-sector organisations across the Arab region.

The MoU underscores the shared vision of IACCIA and ASSOCHAM to build a stronger institutional bridge between India and the Arab world by fostering sustainable partnerships, encouraging cross-border investment, and creating long-term value for businesses and entrepreneurs on both sides.