MANAMA — Gulf Industry Fair 2016 (GIF) will be unveiling a series of events and initiatives at the fair to enhance its reputation as being the GCC's exclusive annual industrial promotion showcase, championing economic diversification and industrialization across the GCC. The 2016 annual industrial event is scheduled to take place from Feb. 9 – 11. Gulf Industry Fair provides a unique one-stop shop approach for the elements of industrial development across the aluminum, energy and environmental protection, industrial metals, industrial processes and manufacturing, logistics and industrial facilities, industrial security and safety, ports and maritime industries as well as training for industry. “The 2016 Exhibition takes place at a watershed period for the economies of the region,” said Jubran Abdulrahman, managing director of Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions, the organizers. “The economic importance for encouraging industrial promotion has never been required more than at this time of declining oil prices. Gulf Industry Fair will focus on promoting economic diversification through the elements of development.” Alba, sponsors of GIF 2016, will encourage the growth of the downstream aluminum sector. The world's fifth largest aluminum smelter, recently announced the start on its Pot Line 6 expansion project. The new production line will turn Alba into the world's largest single-site smelter plant and provide more metal to the region's manufacturers utilizing aluminum. Driving the industrial growth is the demand for energy, GIF's traditional support from BAPCO and National Oil and Gas Authority is recognition of the invaluable contribution required from national energy companies to industrial growth. Majaal Warehouse and Company, Bahrain's SME focused developer and operator of industrial facilities is a solid supporter of industrial facilities for industrial diversity. “Majaal has led the way by providing their support to the Logistics and Industrial Facilities Zone at Gulf Industry Fair,” said Abdulrahman. “Their presence and support at GIF provides the event with a vital element for industrial growth as companies require a premises to develop and grow their businesses.“ — SG
