Ports, shipping, aviation cargo, warehousing and trade
Iran has permitted commercial ships from China, India, Iraq, and Qatar to transit the Strait of Hormuz without passage restrictions. Iranian officials stated the move toward Chinese vessels aims to build diplomatic ties and gain political backing from Beijing. Iran continues to levy transit fees on Chinese and Indian vessels while allowing Qatari ships free passage.
The 140th Canton Fair in Guangzhou served as a major sourcing venue for UAE and Gulf construction procurement teams seeking building materials and sustainable technologies. Bilateral momentum is supported by UAE non-oil trade with China reaching $49.2 billion in the first half of 2026. Regional buyers emphasized direct supplier partnerships to meet tightening delivery schedules and sustainability standards.
Global fintech platform Lianlian DigiTech has officially opened its Middle East regional office in the Dubai International Financial Centre. The move builds on the firm's Category 3D Payment Service Provider licence from the Dubai Financial Services Authority. The hub will provide cross-border payment, foreign exchange, and treasury management services to support trade between China and the Middle East.
GT LINES, the container shipping division of UAE-based Gulftainer Group, has partnered with Chinese carriers to operate two direct China–Khorfakkan shipping routes. The arrangements include an upgraded KCX 1 service in a five-vessel consortium and cooperation with CULines on the KCX 5 service. Both services are scheduled to begin in early November 2026.
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