Hangzhou – China
A delegation from the Arab Federation for Digital Economy, headed by H.E. Dr. Ali Mohammed Al Khouri, Advisor to the Arab Economic Unity Council and Chairman of the Federation, visited Alibaba’s new global headquarters in Hangzhou, China.
The meeting was attended on behalf of Alibaba by Mr. Lan Fangzhou, Head of New Markets, Mr. Lu Fan, Strategy Director, Mr. Ma Haobo, Director of the Middle East Region, and Ms. Li Wenjuan, Marketing Director.
During the meeting, the company presented a detailed overview of its journey since its founding, highlighting its evolution into one of the world’s leading digital commerce groups, with revenues exceeding $137 billion in the 2025 fiscal year. Alibaba’s platforms serve millions of buyers and suppliers across more than 200 countries and regions. The company also reviewed its digital infrastructure, which includes AI-driven systems for demand and inventory management, along with a smart logistics network enabling fast global delivery solutions.
Overview of the Arab Food Market Initiative
The meeting discussed the “Arab Food Market” initiative, which the Federation is developing as a unified digital platform for wholesale food trade. The platform aims to connect Arab farmers and producers with regional and international markets, enhancing supply chain efficiency through modern digital solutions, thereby supporting Arab food security within the framework of the Arab League’s vision.
Agreement on Practical Steps
Both parties agreed to coordinate on exploring cooperation opportunities in building digital platforms and developing supply chain management technologies, while examining ways for Alibaba to contribute expertise and support to ensure the success of the “Arab Food Market” project, paving the way for its expansion regionally and globally.
Dr. Al Khouri concluded the meeting by emphasizing that collaboration with global technology companies like Alibaba represents a key step in supporting Arab economies and establishing independent digital platforms. He noted that the “Arab Food Market” project is a strategic initiative aimed at achieving economic integration and strengthening food security systems across the region.
