GAFTA Faces Uphill Battle Amidst Regional Conflicts, Political Tensions, and Economic Disparities in the Arab League
Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper), In the wake of the 56th meeting of the Arab League states in December 2023, discussions surrounding the implementation of the Great Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA) have resurfaced, posing critical questions about the feasibility of establishing a Free Trade Zone in the Arab world. Despite the initial vision dating back to the creation of the Arab Free Trade Area (AFTA) in 1997, numerous challenges have hindered the realization of a seamless and integrated trade platform among member states.
Saudi Arabia’s recent proposal for a dedicated trade platform aims to enhance communication and address potential obstacles within the region. However, historical problems, including political differences, regional conflicts, external influences, the presence of terrorist organizations, and varying economic development levels among member states, continue to impede progress.
The GAFTA’s history has been marred by regional conflicts that have plagued the Arab world since its inception in 1997. From the US-UK Operation “Desert Fox” in Iraq to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, these conflicts have strained the organization’s ability to function effectively. The recent events of October 2023, reigniting tensions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, have prompted reevaluations by Arab governments, challenging the delicate balance of diplomatic relations within the Arab League.
The persistent threat of terrorist and extremist organizations further complicates the prospects of a stable trade zone. With entities like ISIS, Al-Qaeda, Hezbollah, Hamas, and others operating within the region, ensuring a secure environment for sustained trade becomes a formidable task.
External influences, such as the involvement of global powers like the United States, Russia, Iran, and Saudi Arabia in regional conflicts, add another layer of complexity. The economic challenges faced by some member states, like Lebanon’s financial crisis and Jordan’s slow economic growth, underscore the need for cooperation within the Arab League.
While some member states, such as the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman, boast strong economic capacities, the organization’s success relies on the participation of all members. The delicate balance of political and economic stability in the region poses a significant risk to the ambitious goal of extending trade cooperation among member states.
In conclusion, the Arab League stands at a crossroads, grappling with multifaceted challenges that jeopardize the realization of a Free Trade Zone. As the region navigates through political uncertainties, security concerns, and economic disparities, the fate of GAFTA hangs in the balance, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to overcome these obstacles and foster greater cooperation among member states.
