PARIS: The Arab Investment and Export Credit Guarantee Corporation, known as Dhaman, underscored the expanding trade relationship between Arab countries and France, revealing a substantial $67 billion in trade during 2023 at the fifth Arab-French Economic Summit in Paris. The trade involves significant contributions from the Maghreb and Gulf regions, reflecting strong economic ties and a demand for cooperation in key sectors. According to Jordan News Agency, Dhaman's working paper at the summit detailed the nature of this bilateral trade, highlighting that half of it originates from Maghreb countries while approximately 35 percent involves the Gulf region. The trade encompasses sectors such as energy, machinery, and agricultural products, marking a robust economic partnership. Arab exports to France, valued at $36 billion in 2023, represent 4.7 percent of France's total imports, with oil, gas, and other goods being primary exports. Key contributors include Morocco, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and the UAE , which together account for 82 percent of these exports. Dhaman plays a vital role in facilitating this trade by offering insurance services against political and commercial risks. The corporation provides security for French investments in Arab countries, covering risks such as confiscation and civil unrest, and insures Arab exports against importer insolvency and financial default. Furthermore, Dhaman collaborates with BPI FRANCE to enhance insurance facilities for economic actors in both regions. In 2024, it insured approximately $106 million in Arab-French trade, with expectations for growth as commercial ties deepen. The French market presents insurance opportunities with $108 billion in new commitments for insuring imports and foreign investments in 2023. This growth is anticipated to continue as France strengthens economic agreements with Arab nations, including Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and Tunisia. Dhaman's services in insurance, research, and consultation support the expansion of Arab-French trade and investment, aiding decision-makers and businesses in both regions. Founded in 1974 and based in Kuwait, Dhaman is the world's first multilateral investment insurance body, holding an (A+) rating from S and P with a stable outlook.