RAKIA promotes stronger UAE-Swiss trade relations at OSEC Forum

As part of its programme to further strengthen ties with Switzerland, Ras Al-Khaimah Investment Authority (RAKIA), has just returned from a highly successful participation in the ‘Forum for Swiss Foreign Trade and Investment 2012’.

At the event organized by the Swiss-government commissioned OSEC which informs, advises and guides SMEs from Switzerland and Liechtenstein in their international business ventures, RAKIA – who also co-sponsored the event – highlighted business opportunities for Swiss organisations in its Industrial Parks and Free Zones.

With over 1,000 European companies currently registered with RAKIA, including over 60 companies from Switzerland such as Franke, EPFL Middle East, Swiss International Chocolates and Falcon Technologies, the forum provided an ideal platform for introducing potential investors to the return on investment for businesses in the emirate.

“There was a high level of interest in learning how we are able smooth the process of business formation for Swiss companies,” said Dr. Khater Massaad, CEO, RAK Investment Authority. “This coupled with business friendly policies and a distinct cost advantage – expressly the lower cost of business operations – served to demonstrate why the emirate of Ras AL Khaimah is one of the most lucrative options available.

A highlight in RAKIA’s portfolio of Swiss companies is CSEM, an independent, non-profit Swiss-UAE joint venture company for applied research, including technology, strategy and innovation consulting, focused on generating value for a sustainable world in MENA. Establishing operations in Ras Al-Khaimah in 2005, Swiss engineers have teamed up with local and regional specialists to expand and grow operations.

“Our relationship with Switzerland has been a fruitful one, as can be seen with the Swiss companies that have already made Ras Al-Khaimah home for their international operations,” continued Dr. Khater Massaad.

In order to further facilitate Swiss investments in the emirate, RAKIA has also established offices in Geneva for assistance and information.