HE Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, has chaired a high-level coordination meeting at the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) headquarters in Dubai, with officials from global shipping companies in the UAE and representatives of shipping associations.
The meeting aimed to strengthen coordination in addressing current regional supply chain challenges. It was attended by HE Abdulla bin Damithan, Chairman of PCFC, HE Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director General of Dubai Customs, and HE Ahmad Yousef Al Hassan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World in the GCC.
The discussions reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its position as a resilient global logistics hub, ensuring uninterrupted trade flows, timely delivery of goods to local markets, and availability of essential supplies.
The UAE continues to collaborate with local and international partners to develop innovative, sustainable solutions that enhance global supply chains and economic growth, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining the resilience, efficiency, and reliability of global trade systems.
Strategic themes discussed at PCFC meeting
The meeting covered key strategic priorities, including a review of the current supply chain landscape, mechanisms to ensure operational continuity, and port readiness, along with challenges related to war risk, tariff stability, and alignment with customer needs. Discussions also focused on port capacity, integrated logistics solutions, marine support services, stronger coordination among stakeholders, and the adoption of contingency plans and alternative scenarios.
HE Dr. Al Zeyoudi highlighted that continued investments in logistics infrastructure, supportive legislation, and strong public-private partnerships have positioned the UAE as a key regional and global trade hub, creating a stable and enabling environment for trade and investment despite challenges.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi UAE Minister of Foreign Trade
“This strategic meeting with representatives of global shipping companies and associations focused on the current state of global supply chains amidst the prevailing geopolitical landscape. We explored the challenges confronting international trade and their impact on the efficiency of trade flows and market stability. We also discussed practical solutions to address these challenges, leveraging the UAE’s integrated and adaptable logistics infrastructure. This robust system is designed to navigate all circumstances, strengthen the reliability of supply chains, and ensure their seamless continuity.”
HE Abdulla bin Damithan said the meeting reflects strong public-private sector partnerships and highlighted the need for high coordination, rapid response, and full readiness. He noted that the UAE’s advanced, integrated logistics ecosystem enables it to adapt to changing conditions through route diversification, expanded port use, and multimodal transport.
HE Bin Damithan noted that PCFC is working proactively with maritime partners to address regional challenges by enhancing port readiness and offering flexible operational solutions to ensure uninterrupted supply chains.
Image Credits: Dubai Media Office | Cropped by GBN
He reaffirmed PCFC’s commitment to supporting shipping companies and associations by providing a safe, efficient operating environment that enhances the stability and sustainability of regional and global trade flows.
The PCFC Chairman added that the responsiveness and collaboration of strategic partners reflect the UAE’s proactive, integrated approach to strengthening supply chain resilience, supporting economic growth, and reinforcing its position as a global trade hub.
