UAE - Mubasher: The Dubai Chamber of Commerce set up two new business groups; the Bottled Water Business Group and the Circular Packaging Association, according to a press release.

This step aligns with the chamber’s objectives to raise the number of business firms in diverse economic sectors and foster their activities across Dubai to anchor the emirate's growth.

The Circular Packaging Association seeks to follow the UAE Circular Economy Policy 2021-2031 and improve consumer awareness about the importance of sustainable packaging.

It also plans to offer insights and proposals on legislation and policies related to eco-friendly packaging at both the federal and local levels.

Meanwhile, the Bottled Water Business Group aims to reinforce and develop the sector’s practices in accordance with international best practices for sustainability, in a bid to protect the environment and bolster Dubai’s position as a sustainable and eco-friendly destination.

Additionally, the group will team up with other entities within the business community to evolve sustainable solutions and enhance the water bottling and distribution network in a safe and sustainable way that lowers carbon emissions.

Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, said: “The establishment of new business groups forms part of our plan to develop the private sector’s contribution to sustainable development, boost the business community’s competitiveness and its ability to innovate in the face of challenges, and empower the private sector to play a part in drawing up policies and legislation that drive growth across various economic sectors and activities.”

Lootah noted: “The Chamber is pushing forward with its plans to increase the number of economic sectors and activities represented by business groups to 100.”

He elaborated: “This reflects the diversity and agility of the emirate’s economy, as well as the Chamber’s commitment to fulfilling the wise leadership’s vision to consolidate Dubai’s position as a global capital of finance and business.”

“Our objective is to unify efforts from all companies operating in these two sectors and serving their interests, all in an effort to achieve the objectives, visions, strategies, and economic development plans that Dubai has announced, in addition to strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors, and providing added value to all stakeholders,” the President and CEO concluded.

In the first half (H1) of 2022, the chamber witnessed more than 21,000 new members, marking an annual surge of 80% in membership.