This week the Minister for Justice, Trade and Industry, Nigel Feetham KC MP, is in the UAE, where he has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore opportunities to attract new international business to Gibraltar.

Digital technologies are transforming the way the world does business, including how international finance, payments and trade are conducted. Gibraltar must be part of that future, building on its established strengths in financial services and experience in digital finance.

Abu Dhabi is a major international investment centre, with strong connections across the Middle East, Europe and Africa. Strengthening Gibraltar’s links with the UAE creates opportunities to attract investment, develop new business relationships and diversify Gibraltar’s economy.

HM Government of Gibraltar considers that this marks a new chapter for Gibraltar. Pursuing this kind of institutional partnership allows Gibraltar to explore opportunities to connect its financial services expertise with international digital financial infrastructure and new markets.

Minister Feetham said: “Our ambition is to build on Gibraltar’s strengths as an international financial centre and develop its role as a bridge connecting the Middle East, Europe and Africa.

“During this visit, I am meeting investors, regulators and institutions as part of my Ministerial international outreach programme. I am also exploring opportunities to improve access to credit card facilities in Gibraltar.

“These initiatives are about building a more diversified and resilient economy, broadening our international reach and reducing our reliance on UK-facing business (especially following the impact of the UK gambling tax), so that Gibraltar’s future prosperity is supported by opportunities across a wider range of international markets.”