2nd edition, 2016
Holiday Season
Dear Members,
Dear Partners,
Dear Friends,
Summer is already there…
That means that it’s time for us to have a relaxing break from work in order to recharge our batteries and come back fresh and full of energy for the second part of the year!
But your ABLCC team will not remain inactive all summer long! All its services will remain open throughout summer!
What is more, we will work hard to concoct an interesting and rich programme for the rest of the year. More events, such as Economic Missions, Seminars, Economic Forum, and the like, are yet to come for the rest of 2016. Thus, don’t forget to visit our website for updated information and make sure to mark your calendar!
Likewise, we also encourage you to contact us, should you have any suggestion or requirement…We are continuously seeking to improve our services! This is why we want to hear from you!
The Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce team is looking forward to seeing you again soon and wishes you all a nice summer and Eid Mubarak!
| Johan Beerlandt Chairman |
Qaisar Hijazin Secretary General |
New Members of the Chamber
Hanin Safety
Rue de Bordschamps 2 A, 6900 Marche-en-Famenne
Since 1929, Hanin Safety is specialised in the supply & apply of Bullet proof windows and doors made in steel and aluminum.
Our internal and external joinery resists to shots fired from a Fal, Kalaschnikov 7.62 hard steel cartridge & Remington 12 with Brenneke jet Express 31 gr.
Embassies, Banks (the National Bank of Belgium, Belfius, BNP, Ing, KBC…), post offices and NATO trust us.
Our state-of-arts bulletproof windows & doors will perfectly fit the style of your building, whether it is a classical or contemporary one.
It also gives a high level of insulation. Our aluminum & steel windows and doors are also available for fire rated situations.
Behind every great product is not only innovation and excellent quality materials, but also excellent manufacturing and assembly. In order to ensure that, we achieve excellence in all our activities we have implemented a formal Quality Management System.
Contact: Mr. Denis RUTOT, CEO
Tel: +32 84 32 71 71
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Website: www.hanin.be
Advensys Conseil
Duarrefstrooss 49, 9964 Huldange - Luxembourg
Advensys Conseil is a alternative fund incorporation, company formation, accounting, and tax optimisation agency. Since 2007 our knowledge and our efficiency have been increasing your margin legally.
Advensys Conseil advise and help you from the idea of the business to the step of going to the european market using assets offered in Luxembourg. We are specialized in international real estate tax optimization, private equity fund, financial companies, start up and commercial companies management.
We are active in Luxembourg, UK, France, Belgium, Sweden and Finlande.
Contact: Mr. Irfan ABDUL, General Director
Tel: +352 287 770 90
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Website: www.advensys-conseil.lu
Modern Power Marine Services Co.
Al baghdadiya Dist Capt Brrak Tower, 22231 – 7411 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Modern Power Marine Services Co., is one of the leading companies currently operating in Saudi Arabia, with our Head Quarters situated in Jeddah. We are proud to offer a range of marine services, servicing clients in the Saudi Arabian ports, The Red Sea, as well as in the Middle and Far East.
Since its foundation, Modern Power Marine Services Co. attributes its growth and success and expansion of its services, to constantly,striving to keep abstract of innovations and improvements in marine technology.
Our staffs are highly qualified and offer and efficient service with sound professional advice.
Contact: Mr. Mohammed JAZZAR, Chairman
Tel: +966 12 603 80 40 | Fax: +966 12 603 80 44
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Website: www.modernpowermarine.com
VIVIBA
6 rue des abattoirs – 6600 Bastogne
The group Veviba is a food company with a national and international presence located in Belgium. It is 3 ultra-modern companies selling bovine meat produced in accordance with the very best traditions. Tradition guarantees the taste and technology guarantees the freshness. Quality and traceability are the two core values of this leading Belgian company.
The family has a strong presence in the meat industry since 1960.
The group Veviba offers retailers an exceptionally wide range of products: from ready-to-cut meats to prepare products: rump steaks, kebabs, hamburgers, carpaccio, and offals.
Contact: Mr. Diederik VERBIST, General Manager
Tel: +32 61 21 76 38
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Website: www.veviba.be | www.ardenbeef.com
Economic News
Symposium at Palais du Luxembourg in Paris
Mr. Fouad Trad, Managing Director & CEO of Byblos Bank Europe, recently attended a symposium entitled "Les clés de votre succès à l’International avec vos Partenaires d’Excellence" at the Senate in Paris.
Mr. Trad intervened within the panel "Comment la Commission de Contrôle des Banques au Liban travaille en étroite collaboration avec l’ACPR pour consolider la confiance et être en conformité avec toutes les nouvelles normes européennes et américaines " alongside Samir Hammoud, head of the Banking Control Commission of Lebanon, and Shérine AUDI, General Manager and Board Member of Bank Audi France.
During the symposium, Mr. Fouad Trad stressed the importance of a continuous action for the maintenance and preservation of an unaltered confidence in banks. Speaking of Byblos Bank Europe, headquartered in Brussels with branches located in London and Paris, he referred to "les gendarmes", that is to say the regulations which are binding the subsidiary of Byblos Bank specialized in trade-finance.
For the PowerPoint Presentation, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Egypt Second Investment Forum
The Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce was proud to participate in the Egypt Second Investment Forum organized in Cairo by the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Investment, the general Union of Arab Chambers, and Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal Group, on 28-29 May 2016.
The Forum, which was held under the High Patronage of His excellency President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, presented investment opportunities in Transportation, Energy, Telecom, Industry, Tourism & Agriculture.
President El-Sisi highlighted the fact that over the past period of time Egypt has adopted a range of measures to enforce security and stability in the country. He also confirmed Egypt 's determination to continue its efforts to promote the economy and provide an attractive investment climate, and he stressed Egypt’s commitment to cooperate with all investors and enable them to capitalize on the promising investment opportunities offered in various sectors.
The Forum was attended by more than 400 Arab and foreign investors and businessmen who had the opportunity to fully perceive the many business opportunities offered by the Egyptian market along with the new business climate propitious for foreign investment.
An agreement on simplified rules of origin between Jordan and EU expected before end of July
On June 21, H.E. Imad Fakhoury, Minister of Planning and International Cooperation took part in the periodic meeting with EU ambassadors organized by the European Commission delegation in Amman.
He said that progress was made in EU-Jordan negotiations on simplifying the rules of origin. Jordan was given flexible rules of origin like those used with the least developed countries, considered as an important element in attracting investments to Jordan. Such investments would increase economic growth, create job opportunities for Jordanians and Syrian refugees in the areas where foreign labour is employed and improve Jordanian exports' access to EU market.
The minister pointed out that an agreement was reached on most of those requirements. Both sides, he went on to say, are intensifying their work to bridge the remaining gaps to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement before the end of July so that implementation can start.
Jordan eases conditions for wheat and barley tenders
Jordan has recently made changes to the terms and specifications of its wheat and barley tenders to attract more bids amid a rise in wheat consumption in the Kingdom.
For more information on the matter please see www.mit.gov.jo
Religious pluralism & tolerance: the Bahrain model
The Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce was pleased to take part to the seminar titled "Religious pluralism and tolerance in the Kingdom of Bahrain organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain, in cooperation with the European Parliament.
The seminar was held at the Parliament headquarters in Brussels on Wednesday morning, June 1, 2016, under the joint auspices of the Vice President of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani, who is in charge of dialogue among religions and MP Ivo Vajgl, Head of the Group of Friends of the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Lock of KIELDRECHT in the Port of Antwerp inaugurated
In the port of Antwerp the Lock of Kieldrecht has been officially opened today for commercial shipping by His Majesty the King of Belgium.
The Lock of Kieldrecht connects the Dock of Deurganck, the tidal dock where container vessels arrive, and the Waasland Canal, the connection with the other docks in the Waasland Port on the left bank of the Scheldt in Antwerp. The lock was built because the Lock of Kallo had become too small for the increasingly large commercial vessels. With its width of 68m, its length of 500m and its depth of 27m, the Lock of Kieldrecht can from now on be called the world’s largest lock, closely followed by the Lock of Berendrecht, the same type of lock, also located in the Port of Antwerp, and the new locks in the Panama Canal, which will also be opened officially this year on the 26st of June.
Emirates Group Announces Record Profits
Beginning of May, the Emirates Group announced its 28th consecutive year of profit and steady business expansion, ending the year with record profits, and in a strong position despite the global and operational challenges during this period.
In its 2015-16 Annual Report, the Emirates Group posted an US$ 2.2 billion profit for the financial year ending 31 March 2016, up 50% from last year.
His Highness (H.H.) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, said: “Emirates and dnata delivered record profits, solid business results, and continued to grow throughout 2015-16. Against an unfavourable currency situation which eroded our revenues and profits, an uncertain global economic environment dogged by weak consumer and investor sentiment, as well as ongoing socio-political instability in many regions around the world, the Group’s performance is testament to the success of our business model and strategies.”
Multisectorial Economic Mission to the United Arab Emirates: 03-08 September 2016
BECI invites you to join European companies to explore the growing business opportunities in the United Arab Emirates.
The main sectors in the UAE are: infrastructure (especially construction and mass transport), energy, defense and security, education and training, financial services and to the person, creative industries and the media.
This mission is open to companies from all sectors, with a priority given to women entrepreneurs and women in business.
Chamber News and Recent Activities
ABLCC Business Handbook
The Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the publication, both in hard and soft copies, of its new Business Handbook, which is a first-class guide to Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg official institutions, professional organizations, and to the ABLCC growing network of companies along with their contact details.
This Business Handbook also provides valuable economic information on Belgium and Luxembourg in the Arabic language.
Last but not least it is meant to reach a target audience of more than 10,000 people, be they trade officials or stakeholders, in Belgium, Luxembourg, and 22 Arab countries.
To consult the online version: click here
EU engagement with Jordan
13 April 2016
The Secretary General of the ABLCC met with H.E Dr. Yousef Batayneh, Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, in order to discuss ways to strengthen relations between Jordan and the European Union in the context of the new association agreement and the simplified rules of origin.
8th EBBA visit to Brussels
09 May 2016
For the eighth consecutive year, the Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with BECI, Europe Enterprise Network (EEN), and the Embassy of Egypt in Brussels, received a delegation of Egyptian-Belgian Business men (EBBA) on Monday 9 May, 2016, in BECI headquarters.
In this year’s edition, around 30 Egyptian Businessmen and more than twenty Belgian companies took part in an afternoon of B2B Business Networking, which offered a great opportunity for the various participants to meet potential cooperation and business partners.
Likewise, on the occasion of the visit of the Egyptian business delegation, Brussels Invest and Export held an Economic Forum entitled “Business opportunities in Egypt, the number one partner of Belgium in Southern Mediterranean”, in the house of the Region followed by a networking lunch.
Mr. Qaisar Hijazin, Secretary General of the ABLCC, was glad to moderate the panel discussion on economic relations between Belgium and Egypt and business opportunities in Egypt with:
- H.E. Cécile Jodogne - Secretary of State for Foreign Trade & Investment for the Brussels-Capital Region
- H.E. Ehab Fawzy - Ambassador of Egypt to Belgium and the EC: The Egyptian Belgian Business relations, a stability despite all
- Mr. Mohamed Youssef - GAFI (General Authority for Investment and Free Zones): Business opportunities in Egypt
- Mr. Rafik Attia - Chairman of EBBA (Egyptian Belgian Business Association): Egyptian Belgian cooperation from a business perspective
We hope to continue this excellent cooperation in the coming years and we are looking forward to welcoming the EBBA delegation again next year!
Should you have any comment and/or suggestion about this annual event, do not hesitate to send us an email @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
A Wind of Economic Renewal within Arab Countries: “The case of Tunisia: understanding the challenges and opportunities”
24 May 2016
The seminar “A Wind of Economic Renewal within Arab Countries: The case of Tunisia - understanding the challenges and opportunities”, jointly organized by the Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce and FIPA Tunisia for the Benelux, with the support of the Embassy of Tunisia in Brussels, on 24 May, 2016, was appreciated by all the participants who numbered around 100. This Seminar was held in BNP Paribas Fortis beautiful premises which were kindly made available for the whole day.
The wind of economic renewal in Tunisia is carried by our strategic choice for democracy, tolerance and pluralism.
On this occasion, we had the immense privilege to welcome as our guests of honour, H.E. Mr. Ridha Ben Mosbah, Minister and Economic Advisor to the Tunisian government, and H.E. Mrs. Cécile Jodogne, Brussels’ Secretary of State for Foreign Trade.
The attendance of both Ministers to the seminar is clear evidence of their commitment to further deepening bilateral relations between our two countries.
After a welcome note by Mr. Andre Deltenre, Head of Cash Management & Trade Finance for BNP Paribas Fortis, Mr. Qaisar Hijazin, Secretary of General of Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce and H.E. Mr. Tahar Cherif, Ambassador of Tunisia to the Kingdom of Belgium, we had the pleasure to listen to Their Excellencies Ben Mosbah and Jodogne.
Arab countries are a valuable and strong business partner of Belgium and Belgian companies are right to pursue business relations with those countries.
Afterwards, Mr. Frederic Du Bois, Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Embassy of Belgium in Tunisia, Mr. Enzo Helou, Manager, Business Development, European Bank For Reconstruction and Development, and Mr. Bruno Denis, Head of Division, Public Sector/South, Neighbouring Countries Department, European Investment Bank, shared their presentations and experience with the audience.
A Wind of Economic Renewal within Arab Countries: the case of Tunisia… Tunisia’s economy has suffered in recent months in part because of a significant drop in tourism. However, the government is strongly focusing on bringing growth back on track and making Tunisia a safe destination for foreign trade and investment. Key economic reforms are first on its agenda to improve the business climate.
The next Arab destination on my program happens to be Tunisia, where I hope to be joined by a significant Belgian Business delegation during an economic mission that will take place from October 3rd till October 7th.
Through this event, the Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce wished to express its support for closer cooperation between Belgium and Tunisia through trade. Indeed, Belgium and Tunisia already enjoy a deep friendship, and we believe that trade is one avenue to deepen the connections between them.
To bring to a close this interesting seminar, the participants had the opportunity to establish contacts during a networking cocktail where they could exchange with Tunisian officials and companies.
Qatar – Belgium Business Forum: “A Smart Partnership: Expanding Cooperation in Key Areas”
25 May 2016
On the Occasion of the visit of H.E. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Jassim Al Thani, Minister of Economy and Trade of the State of Qatar, with an Economic and Business Delegation of CEO, to the Kingdom of Belgium, the Embassy of the State of Qatar and the Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce (ABLCC), in collaboration with the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and regional foreign trade agencies (AWEX, FIT, BIE), were delighted to organize a Business Forum on Wednesday, 25 May, 2016, from 9.00 am to 12.00 pm, at Hotel Steigenberger.
The event, which attracted over 150 people, was a roaring success and we were delighted to welcome such a great number of participants!
Behind this considerable success lies the fact that the State of Qatar is experiencing a development considered by experts as one of the fastest in the world. The country, which is working to diversify its economy away from the oil and gas sector, offers Belgian businesses ample opportunities to share their experience and know-how to its growing market.
We are very grateful to Your Excellency for coming to Belgium with high level officials, as well as businessmen. People to people contacts are crucial if you want to develop business relationship or even better a true partnership.
After a welcome address by Mr. Johan Beerlandt, Chairman of the ABLCC and CEO of BESIX, and H.E. Sheikh Ali Bin Jassim AL THANI, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Kingdom of Belgium, we had the pleasure to listen H.E. Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatari Minister of Economy and Trade, H.E. Mr. Pieter de Crem, Belgian Secretary of State for Foreign trade, and Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Qatari Businessmen Association.
In his introductory speech, H.E. Sheikh Ali Bin Jassim AL THANI pointed out that this business forum was a perfect follow up to the large economic delegation led by Princess Astrid of Belgium to Qatar last year.
Likewise, H.E.M. Pieter de Crem highlighted the fact that subsequently to the Belgian Princely Mission to the State of Qatar in March 2015, “our bilateral trade volume has substantially increased in 2015 to reach almost 1.5 billion EUR. The Belgian exports increased by 56% to reach 318 million EUR while the Qatari exports grew by 17% to reach 1.127 billion EUR. The economic mission has no doubt contributed to it.” "Our cooperation has already developed in all the sectors of the ambitious Qatar National Vision of 2030," he added.
Belgian companies are playing an important role in strengthening economic ties with Qatar, yet we have to exert more effort to expand and develop our economic, trade and investment cooperation.
In his speech, H.E. Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim Al Thani pointed up that by now there are 61 Belgian companies operating in the State of Qatar. His Excellency also mentioned Qatar's National Economic Vision 2030 intended to guide economic, human and environmental development of the country and reduce dependence on oil and gas.
The main subject of the Forum “A Smart Partnership: Expanding Cooperation in Key Areas” was addressed in three plenary sessions:
Session I: Public Investment for World Cup 2022 + other Major Projects: challenges and opportunities for Qatari-Belgian Cooperation
- HE Mr. Nasser Ali Almawlawi, CEO, Public Works Authority
- HE Mr. Abdullah Bin Abdelaziz Alsbii, CEO, Qatar Rail
- Mr. Youssed Al Moslih, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy
Session II: Investment funds and investment opportunities
- Mr. Kamal Naji, CEO for Strategy & Business Development, Qatar Financial Centre
- Mr. Ahmed Albouinin, Business Development Director, Katara Hospitality
- Mr. Mohammad Al Malki, Manateq (Economic Zones Company)
- Mr. Fathi Abdelati, Qatar Airways
- Sheikh Turki Bin Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, President of the Belgian Business Club in Qatar
Session III: Challenges in the Energy Sector - business opportunities, joint investments and cooperation in research, development and innovation
- Mr. Ali Abdallah Salat, Ministry of Energy & Industry
- Mr. Abdennasser Al Ansari, Deputy Executive Director, Qatar National Research Fund
- Mr. Ali Manie Al Ahbabi, Business Development Director, Nebras Power
The Forum was an efficient way to shedding light on the various investment opportunities offered by the fastest growing economy in the Gulf region. It also offered the participants the opportunity to establish multiple contacts outside the meeting room as well as during the business lunch hosted by the Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce and the Embassy of the state of Qatar.
Upcoming Events
21 September 2016
Doing Business with Arab Countries: Theory & Practice
As every year, the Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with SGS Belgium NV, is organizing, for the seventh consecutive year, its Seminar entitled “Doing business with Arab countries: Theory and Practice”, on 21 September, 2016.
This Seminar is to be held in the premises of SGS from 14h30 to 17h15 and will be followed by a networking buffet.
Where? In the premises of SGS – 87 Noorderlaan, 2030 Antwerp
When? from 14h30 to 17h30
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Look for more detailed information on our website soon!
02-05 October 2016
Economic and Trade Mission to Tunisia
Brussels Invest & Export (BIE), in partnership with the Arab-Luxembourg-Chamber of Commerce (ABLCC) and Wallonia Export & Investment Agency (AWEX), is organizing an Economic and Trade Mission to Tunisia in the construction/ infrastructure / engineering and architecture sectors. The Mission, to be held from 02 to 05 October 2016, will be presided over by H.E. Cécile Jodogne, Secretary of State for Foreign Trade & Investment for the Brussels-Capital Region.
What are the advantages to take part to this Mission?
- As part of this mission, we organize B2B meetings tailored to your needs
- Opportunity to take part to networking events with other companies of the delegation as well as with local stakeholders and decision makers.
- We handle the practical travel arrangements (selection of hotels, collective transport)
- We guarantee excellent support, on-site visits, and follow-up contact
- You benefit from our representative and his team’s in-depth knowledge of the local market
- A custom-made program will be specifically organized for the construction industry (construction, infrastructure, design offices, architects ...)
More information here.
16/17 November 2016
11th Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Economic Forum
Over the years, the Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Economic Forum has become a not-to-miss event on the calendar of the ABLCC. The Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the General Union of Arab Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture for Arab Countries, is thus pleased to invite you to the 11th edition of its Economic Forum on 16/17 November 2016.
The Forum, which brings together decision makers, government officials, diplomats, business executives, investors, and professional organizations from Belgium, Luxembourg, the EU, and Arab countries, seeks to strengthen commercial relations as well as to promote investment projects and partnerships in various key economic sectors.
As usual we will be welcoming a prominent personality! To find out who will be our guest of honour this year don’t forget to consult our website on a regular basis!
Mark your calendar and make sure to attend this major event!
Fairs, Conferences and Exhibitions
Agrofood
Baghdad (Irak) – 07-09 September 2016
More information: www.iraqagrofood.com
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The big 5
Kuwait – 25-27 September 2016
More information: www.big5kuwait.com
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Energy Irak
Erbil (Irak) – 10 -13 October 2016
More information: www.energyiraq-expo.com
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
EneR Event
Casablanca (Morocco) – 12-15 October 2016
More information: www.elec-expo.ma
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Hospitality Qatar 2016
Doha (Qatar) – 18 -20 October 2016
More information: www.hqshow.com
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Maghreb Pharma Expo 2016
Alger (Algeria) – 08-10 November 2016
More information: www.easyfairs.com/fr/events_216/maghreb-pharma-2016_82255/maghreb-pharma-expo-2016_82256
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The big 5
Dubai (UAE) – 21-24 November 2016
More information: www.thebig5.ae
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Business Proposals / Tenders
Interested in tenders or Business proposals?
The Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce receives invitations to tenders and Business opportunities from its various partners on a regular basis. This service is exclusively provided to ABLCC members.
Would you also like to benefit from these and other ABLCC services?
Join the ABLCC membership today and enjoy the full range of advantages offered by our Chamber. Subscribe here.
Brochure and subscription form
Brochure en inschrijvingsformulier
Brochure et demande d’adhésion
مزايا الانضمام لعضوية الغرفة و طلـب انتســـاب الغرفة
You are welcome to return the completed form to us by e-mail (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ) or fax (32 2 347 57 64).
يرجى إعادة الاستمارة لنا بعد تعبئتها بشكل كامل بالبريد الالكتروني (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. )
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