The Association of Mediterranean Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ASCAME) alongside the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, has announced the 18th Mediterranean Week of Economic Leaders, MedaWeek Barcelona 2024, taking place on October 29-30 at the Llotja de Mar in Barcelona.
Key objectives of this year’s event include fostering new cooperation and dialogue among businesses in the region to tackle the emerging challenges posed by the current geopolitical landscape. This annual gathering will feature participation from over 40 institutions and organizations from the Mediterranean region and beyond, along with thousands of CEOs, entrepreneurs, and professionals representing more than 45 countries. Leaders from the Mediterranean will discuss actions being undertaken in their nations to address pressing issues like climate change, sustainable tourism, economic transformation, and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
With the theme “The sea that unites the three continents,” MedaWeek Barcelona 2024 aims to serve as a hub for dialogue and analysis while opening doors to new business and investment opportunities, fostering partnerships and strategic alliances amongst companies and between public and private sectors, and promoting knowledge exchange and innovation.
Co-organized by ASCAME and the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, and supported by entities such as the Union for the Mediterranean and the European Institute of the Mediterranean (IEMed), the event will include sessions focused on emerging sectors that are reshaping the Mediterranean landscape, including technology, the food industry, tourism, the creative and audiovisual sectors, sports, and the green and blue economy (covering renewable energies).
These sectors hold significant economic and social importance for the region. For instance, tourism—accounting for about 20% of global tourism—is expected to contribute over €200 billion to the Mediterranean region’s GDP by 2024. Simultaneously, the impact of climate change might lead to economic losses of 5-15% of GDP annually for Mediterranean countries, necessitating enhanced collaboration from the private sector to devise effective solutions.
A notable highlight of this year’s edition will be the launch of the Mediterranean Annual Economic Report, prepared by IEMed, which will provide insights into the current state of the private sector in the Mediterranean, analyzing key trends and forecasts. Additionally, B2B meetings will facilitate business agreements, and dedicated sessions will delve into entrepreneurial opportunities in North Africa and Canada, focusing on advancements in AI and IoT.
During the press conference, both Josep Santacreu, President of the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, and Anwar Zibaoui, General Coordinator of ASCAME, emphasized the critical need for MedaWeek 2024 as a unique platform for Mediterranean businesses to collaborate towards a shared future, aiming for regional peace and stability amidst uncertainty.
Santacreu underscored the necessity for a redefined relationship between the Mediterranean and the EU, advocating for a partnership built on mutual respect and equality, rather than one characterized by a dynamic of donors and beneficiaries. He urged for a fresh approach that addresses economic, geopolitical, security, and climate-related challenges.
Zibaoui highlighted the complexities of organizing this event, bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders from the Mediterranean. He reiterated the vision of shifting the narrative around the region from crisis and conflict to one where collaboration and a shared future are prioritized. The aim is to engage Mediterranean companies actively in ensuring stability and prosperity for their communities.
Both representatives acknowledged the significance of MedaWeek as the foremost platform for amplifying the voice of the Mediterranean private sector. They recognized Barcelona’s potential as a central hub connecting Africa, Europe, and Asia, enhancing regional competitiveness and promoting stability through cooperation and dialogue.
