Who We Are

The Investment Development Authority of Lebanon (IDAL) is the national investment promotion agency that was established in 1994 with the aim of promoting Lebanon as a key investment destination, and attracting, facilitating and retaining investments in the country.   Investment Law No.360 that was enacted in 2001 reinforced IDAL’s mission, providing a framework for regulating investment activities in Lebanon, and providing investors with a range of incentives and business support services. It identified a set of priority sectors that showed the most promising opportunities in terms of their investment potential and impact on socio-economic growth, including Agriculture, Agro Industry, Industry, IT, Media, Technology, Telecommunication and Tourism sectors.   In addition to its role as investment promotion agency, IDAL is entrusted with the active promotion and marketing of Lebanese exports including agricultural and agro-industrial products.   IDAL enjoys financial and administrative autonomy and reports to the President of the Council of Ministers who exercises a tutorial authority over it.  

Our Services

IDAL is responsible for attracting and generating foreign and local investments to Lebanon through identifying sectors with the potential and readiness for growth and proposing a set of services and product offerings to investors. IDAL is also entrusted with the active promotion and marketing of Lebanese exports including agricultural and agro-industrial products. IDAL’s Business Support Unit is primarily responsible to provide Large projects, SMEs, and start-ups with all the needed information to set-up and run their business, as well as free legal and audit advice, administrative and fiscal incentives, and facilitation services.

FDI Data

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) flows to Lebanon jumped by 14% to USD 2.88 billion in 2018 compared to USD 2.52 billion in 2017, highlighting the continuous confidence of investors in the Lebanese economy.

Intellectual Property

Investors wishing to file for a patent, trademark or copyright, are protected by the Intellectual Property Law.

Pharmaceutical Industry

Lebanon is considered a hub for high-quality healthcare services in the Middle East due to its reputable, internationally accredited hospitals and talented doctors. Capitalizing on its competitive advantages, Lebanon’s nascent pharmaceutical market is experiencing fast growth and becoming more competitive regionally and globally. Opportunities exist to tap into the manufacturing of Over-the Counter (OTC) medicine, generics and patented drugs under license of international companies.   KEY FACTS AND FIGURES:   The market size of the pharmaceutical sector stood at USD 1.82 billion in 2017 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5% to reach 2.3 USD billion in 2022. Per capita pharmaceutical spending is expected to increase from USD 299 in 2017 to USD 395 in 2022, considered one of the highest in the region. Patented drugs account for around 50 % of the market, and over-the-counter (OTC) and generic drugs account for around 25 % each. The sector comprises more than 100 importers and 11 manufacturing facilities. Pharmaline has the biggest share of the local market accounting for around 40% of total market sales, followed by Benta Pharma (32%), Algorithm (15%), and Mediphar (12%). Export activity has been picking up recently, with pharmaceutical exports growing at a CAGR of 11% from 2014 to 2017 reaching USD 52.5 million in 2017. The leading exporting countries are Iraq (23%), UAE (20%), Saudi Arabia (19%) and Kuwait (11%). Imports stood at USD 1.2 billion in 2017, accounting for 7% of total industrial imports. The leading importing countries are Germany (16%), France (12%) and United States (11%).  MARKET OPPORTUNITIES:   Growing MENA Pharma sector which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.5% during the 2015-2020 period, backed by population growth, rising incomes and rise in lifestyle diseases. Growth of the Generics drugs Market with MENA region Generics market forecasted to reach USD 734 million in 2020 with Egypt, Jordan and Morocco the top countries for generic drugs sales. Lebanon already manufactures around 21% of total generics available in the market therefore there is an opportunity to increase this ratio especially after the national Government declared its intention to amend existing regulations to allow pharmacists to offer generics brands of prescribed drugs to patients. Governmental measures for the protection of the local pharmaceutical industry after the Ministry of Health recently declared that imported drugs will undergo review and adjustment of their prices every 3 years instead of 5. Those measures are expected to benefit the local pharmaceutical industry. Growing market for natural cosmetics: Demand for natural and organic products is growing exponentially driven by increased awareness on health and wellness. Lebanon’s cosmetics industry ranks amongst the top 5 Lebanese exports indicating its strong position and its potential to grow to address regional and global demand.   Sources: BMI, Lebanese Customs, Brite by Blom Bank

Overview

IDAL provides support to Lebanese exporters, primarily exporters from productive sectors with high-added value including Agriculture, Agrofood, High-tech manufacturing, and ICT.   We have launched since 2001 a series of programs aimed at promoting Lebanese exports internationally and supporting exporters access new markets. More specifically, IDAL has been responsible for:   Providing exporters with access to markets through supporting their participation in international fairs and exhibitions Providing access to business matchmaking opportunities through the organization of trade missions to potential target markets in cooperation with Lebanese embassies abroad Providing access to studies on regional and global markets of interest to exporters Providing technical assistance and training on international requirements   In addition, several other public and private organizations provide services to exporters in other forms complementing IDAL’s services. This section aims to guide exporters across all sectors on the services available to them and the steps required to export efficiently and effectively.   IDAL has 3 export promotion programs:   AGRI-PLUS PROGRAM was launched in 2012 to provide subsidies and support to exporters of agricultural products.  AGRO MAP PROGRAM was launched in 2004 to facilitate the participation of agro food companies in foreign fairs.   M.LEB PROGRAM was launched in 2015 to cover a part of the cost of Lebanese products exported to Arab countries by sea and it ended in 2018. In 2016, The Lebanese Council of Ministers has approved to mandate IDAL to repay the CHINESE LOAN through Lebanese exports.  

About the Unit

Would you like to open or expand your business in Lebanon?   The Business Support Unit (BSU) at the Investment Development Authority of Lebanon (IDAL) is here to help you. This unit provides large scale projects, SMEs, and start-ups with all the needed information to set-up and run their business, as well as free legal and audit advice, administrative and fiscal incentives, and facilitation services. It is operated by a dedicated team from IDAL with the support of appointed external legal and tax/accounting advisors. It also relies on a close collaboration with specific public sector entities through appointed coordinators.   The BSU provides eligible companies with market information, free legal and tax/accounting advice, fiscal incentives, as well as licensing support in order to help them establish and grow their company in Lebanon.

Economic Performance

LEBANON’S MAIN ECONOMIC INDICATORS   LEBANON’S MAIN ECONOMIC INDICATORS --> OUTPUT AND PRICES (2019) 1    GDP USD 58.56 Billion GDP/Capita USD 9,655 Real GDP Growth 0.2% Average Inflation Rate 3.1%  GDP COMPOSITION BY SECTOR (2018) 2   Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing 3.2% Mining and Quarrying  0.4% Manufacturing 7.6% Utilities (Electricity and Water) 2.4% Construction 3.8% Wholesale and Retail Trade, Repair of Vehicles 12.9% Real Estate 15.2% Information and Communication 2.1% Transportation 2.9% Hotels and Restaurants 3.1% Financial Services 8.5% Professional Services 4.1% Administrative Services 2.6% Public Administration 11.4% Education 7.4% Health and Social Care 3.7% Personal & Community Services 2.9% FISCAL PERFORMANCE 3   Gross Public Debt (as of October 2019) 151% of GDP Fiscal Deficit (as of October 2019) USD -6,066 million Corporate Tax Rate (2019) 17% FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE   Domestic Credit to Private Sector (end of 2018) 4 109.4% of GDP  Liquidity Ratio (2018) 5 6.1% Non-resident Capital Inflows (2018) 6 USD 7 billion EXTERNAL SECTOR   Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) (2018) 7 USD 2.88 billion Current Account Balance (2019) 1 USD -15.45 billion Source: 1International Monetary Fund (IMF), 2Central Administration of Statistics (CAS), 3Ministry of Finance, 4Central Bank of Lebanon and IMF, 5IMF, Article IV 2019, 6Byblos Bank, 7UNCTAD

Incentives Granted by IDAL

In its role as national investment promotion agency, IDAL offers through its Investment Law No.360, a series of financial and non-financial incentives to investment projects.

eCommerce

Exporting companies interested to export online can either sell directly through their own website or through an online marketplace.   There are several technology companies that now provide inclusive subscription packages that can help develop an online store website. Companies such as Magento, Shopify or BigCommerce can help businesses build their own transactional website. The template usually includes the website design, backend system, e-payment gateway management and freight management functions. However, companies are required to sign up for a monthly subscription with a free trial option. Two local companies in Lebanon, ecomz and shop builder, are providing similar services to exporters based in Lebanon or the region.   An online marketplace platform, like Amazon & eBay, doesn’t hold any inventory, instead inviting distributors and brand owners to open shops on their platform.   Online marketplaces will usually charge a number of fees: a shop opening fee, a product listing fee, a deposit amount, and a continuous commission fee according to total sales volume.

Maritime Lebanese Exports Bridge Program

The Maritime Lebanese Exports Bridge (M.LEB) Program was launched by IDAL in 2015 following a Council of Ministers decision (Resolution No.1, dated 02.07.2015) and terminated in 2018.   The M.LEB Program aimed at giving IDAL a treasury credit of 21 Billion LBP to cover a part of the cost of Lebanese products exported to Arab countries by sea and consisted of subsidizing the difference between land-route transport costs and maritime transport costs for both agricultural and industrial exports.   The M.LEB Program lied on three main pillars: Contributing in opening a regular shipping line between the Lebanese ports and the target markets for the transportation of Lebanese exports by sea Facilitating the transport of about 35 trucks a day loaded with Lebanese agricultural, industrial, and agro-food products to key target markets Granting a direct subsidy for each truck transporting Lebanese products to the target countries across the sea, and using vessels of various forms (RORO) or (ROPax), depending on the shipping lines, either directly through the Suez Canal or indirectly through the Egyptian ports

Other Incentives

In addition to the incentives granted by the Investment Development Authority of Lebanon, a series of incentives are available by the government for local and foreign investors to operate their project in Lebanon.

Trade Performance

Lebanon serves as an entry point to the regional market through its liberal trade regime with an export-oriented economic strategy. Local companies looking to expand their exports can tap into a market of around 900 million people capitalizing on Lebanon’s low tariff rates which range between 0 and 5 for around 75% of goods. Furthermore, exporters can benefit from the multiple trade agreements that Lebanon is signatory to, including the Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA), Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreement and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Nonetheless, Lebanon’s trade balance recorded a deficit of USD 15.5 billion in 2019, down from USD 17 billion in 2018 due to a 4% decrease in total imports, mostly affected by the Syrian crisis and increasing regional competition.   LEBANON’S TRADE BALANCE (Billion USD | 2014-2019) Source: Central Bank of Lebanon

Chemical Industry

Lebanon’s chemical sector has undoubtedly advanced and matured over the years, positioning itself as a major player in the regional market. Abundant opportunities are available in the sector ready to be exploited in particular opportunities in the high added-value chemical production that can serve niche global markets. Production in the Chemical industry in Lebanon is mainly concentrated in plastics, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, fertilizers and soaps.   KEY FACTS AND FIGURES:   The Gross Value-Added of the chemical industry stood at USD 437 million in 2017. Chemical companies account for 13% of the total industrial firms in Lebanon, comprising 633 companies. More than 60% of chemical companies are located in Mount Lebanon and more than 10% in the Bekaa. 37% of companies in the Chemical sector manufacture Plastics followed by Paints and Derivatives (16%) and Soaps and its Derivatives (15%). Exports stood at USD 417 million in 2017, accounting for 16% of total industrial exports. The leading exporting countries are Iraq (14%), UAE (13%) and Saudi Arabia (10%). Manufactured Plastic Products are the 3rd largest Lebanese exports. Imports stood at USD 1.62 billion in 2017, accounting for 9% of total industrial imports. The leading importing countries are Germany (12%), France (9%) and United States (8%).   MARKET OPPORTUNITIES:   Reconstruction of Syria: There are huge opportunities to tap into the Syrian market especially for the paint and plastics industry as they are important input for the upcoming infrastructure and construction boom.    Regional Construction Sector: The chemical sector can benefit from increasing demand in the Gulf countries for construction materials mainly plastics primarily driven by infrastructure investments, economic transformation plans and tourism related projects. Development of Downstream industries: Lebanon signed its first offshore oil and gas exploration and production agreement in 2018 with drilling expected to start in 2019. This will create new opportunities for the development of downstream industries including plastics, fertilizers and other petrochemical products.   Sources: Lebanese Customs, Ministry of Industry

Baalbeck El-Hermel Governorate

Area Size: 3,009 Km2 Population: 416,427 (as per latest estimates)Districts: Baalbeck, El HermelAdministrative Center: BaalbeckNumber of municipalities: 83Number of Projects that benefited from IDAL’s incentives: 1Unemployment rate: 4%   LOCATION & TOPOGRAPHY:   The Bekaa Valley, with a length of 120km and width of 16 km, represents 42% of Lebanon’s area. It is divided into three main areas: North Bekaa composed of Baalbeck and El Hermel, Central Bekaa and West Bekaa.   Located 86 Km from Beirut, the Baalbeck - El Hermel governorate includes 63 towns and villages spreaded over  the two districts: El Hermel and Baalbeck, the largest district in Lebanon with a total area of 2,319 km2. Baalbeck city, the capital of this governorate comprises an impressive archaeological site which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984. As for the El Hermel district, located at the extreme northern of the governorate, the limited rainfall and soil low fertility make the wheat and barley the main cultivated crops in addition to livestock farming of sheep and goat. Moreover, the presence of the Assi river makes the region suitable for fish farming mainly for Trout and Tilapia.   MAIN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY:   Agriculture: the soil texture in Baalbeck provides a great potential for crop production. The region grasps the highest share (25%) of total cultivated land in Lebanon. As for Hermel, it enjoys the presence of the Assi river which makes the district the major hydrographic region in Lebanon. Industry: around 32 industrial firms are located in the governorate, 34% of which are engaged in agro-food related activities. COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES: 2 universities and higher education institutions are available in Baalbeck - El Hermel region (Lebanese University faculty of Science sand American University of Culture & Education). 80% of aquaculture fish farms in Lebanon are located in El Hermel region along the the Assi river with an estimated average yield of 10-12 tons/year. The presence of Advancing Research Enabling Communities Center (AREC) that includes a research farm, seed bank, and cold storage facility. More than 10 milk storage and cooling centers have been established to serve small dairy holders and producers. The Project “Recovery and Rehabilitation of dairy sector in Bekaa Valley and Hermel-Akkar Uplands” aims at upgrading and improving the capacities and the skills of dairy processors. Development of a waste treatment plant a part of a EU-funded project aiming at constructing a sanitary landfill and a pilot bio-digester that can produce electricity out of organic waste. More than 32 industrial firms are located in Baalbeck - EL Hermel governorate. The majority of these firms (34% of total) are engaged in agro-food related activities. Impressive archeological and touristic sites from Baalbeck citadel to Qamou’ El Hermel and many other cultural sites. The region is home to one of the oldest and most prestigious cultural events in the Middle East: Baalbeck International Festival.   INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES:   Agriculture: Investments in fish farming systems such as the recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) which allows the introduction of new species such as Barramundi, common carp, and Eastern mosquito fish (Gambusia holbrooki). Agro-Food: Opportunities exist in organic dairy products such as flavored milks and dairy snacks. Tourism: Ample opportunities are available across the tourism sub-sectors such as the development of boutique hotels and other rural tourism related activities.

Agri-Food

The agri-food sector is a major contributor to Lebanon’s industrial sector growth and is expected to continue to play a major role in the economy, driven by government support and private sector initiatives to boost its competitiveness.   KEY FACTS AND FIGURES:   In 2018, the agri-food sector was the largest contributor to the industrial sector output accounting for 38% of industrial output and generating 2.9% of the country’s GDP. The sector has an estimated size of 1.6 billion USD and has grown at a CAGR of 9.5% over the 2010 and 2018 period There are around 1,245 agri-food companies constituting the largest share of total industrial firms in Lebanon, with 48% located in Mount Lebanon Governorate. Exports of agri-food products accounted for 11.7% of total exports and for 12.4% of industrial exports in 2019. Despite all external and internal challenges, agri-food exports have been growing at a CAGR of 2% since 2010, highlighting the sector’s potential and resilience.  Lebanese agri-food production is diversified with a wide range of traditional and innovative products being exported to regional and international markets. Top 3 exported agri-food products in 2019 included dried fruits and nuts (10% of total), followed by processed chocolate (8%) and other vegetables and food preparations (7%). Arab countries are importing the highest share of Lebanese agri-food products, accounting for 48% of total agri-food exports in 2019 with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Iraq and Kuwait importing more than 35%.   COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES:   Large and diversified agriculture land: Lebanon has the largest agriculture land share from its territory in the Middle East at 63%, supporting the development of a competitive agriculture processing sector. Skilled labor force with competitive wages: The agri-food sector benefits from a cost-effective labor force that can support its development and growth. In 2018, around 30,000 students were enrolled in Engineering and Agri-food studies. Government support: the government of Lebanon has placed the agri-food sector as a key priority to develop and support through its various technical and financial services including tax incentives, technical assistance and others. International treaties and agreements: Lebanon’s agri-food exporters benefit from favorable terms and access to external markets due to a considerable number of bilateral and multilateral agreements including GAFTA and EFTA.   MARKET OPPORTUNITIES: Wine: Lebanese wine have reached global reach with high penetration rates in countries with large diaspora population. Wine exports reached USD 21 million in 2019 with the UK (33%) and USA (17%) topping the destinations. Olive oil: Lebanon’s olive oil exports performed well over the years, growing at a CAGR of 6% during the 2010-2019 period, leaving room for various investment opportunities in the production of extra virgin olive oil from new varieties of olive. Dried fruits and nuts: Lebanon’s dried fruits and nuts value chain can be reshaped to create higher value products and become a consistent supplier to untapped regional markets such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Spain. Chocolate: Lebanon is a main supplier of chocolate for GCC countries offering premium chocolate pieces in sophisticated packages. Local brands have the capacity to tap into wealthier emerging markets with new healthier chocolate produces. Dairy products: The availability of livestock in the country paves the way for important investment opportunities in manufacturing high-quality dairy-based goods.    

Legal Proceedings

Commercial disputes can be settled through the Lebanese Arbitration Center, whose by-laws and regulations are similar to those of the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris.

Export Promotion

We assist in the support, promotion and marketing of Lebanese products.

Investment Incentives

The government of Lebanon offers a series of incentives to national and foreign investors alike as part of its strategy to attract investments to growth promising sectors. A series of exemptions and tax breaks are offered by various ministries and government agencies to support companies in their set-up and operation phases.   Do you need more information on the investment incentives in Lebanon? Please do not hesitate to contact the BSU teamo so that our legal consultant can best advise you.

Investment Insurance Programs

Investments in Lebanon profit from insurance against political risks provided by The National Investment Guarantee Corporation (NIGC).

Investment Map

Printing Industry

The printing sector has been transformed significantly over the last decade fueled by the digitization of information. Lebanon, a longtime leader in printing services in the MENA region was able to maintain its market share by adopting the latest innovative trends. Packaging, especially for the Agrofood industry, and 3D printing are the biggest opportunities available in the sector.   KEY FACTS AND FIGURES:   The Gross Value-added of the printing industry stood at USD 156 million in 2017. Printing companies account for 6% of the total industrial firms in Lebanon, comprising 305 companies. More than 80% of printing companies are located between Mount Lebanon and Beirut. Exports stood at USD 142 million in 2017, accounting for 3% of total industrial exports and ranked in the top 10 of Lebanese exports. Printed books and brochures account for around 50% of total printing exports. The leading exporting countries are Iraq (13%), Saudi Arabia (12%) and Egypt (9%). Lebanon imported around USD 300 million worth of printing products in 2017 mainly from China (10%), United States (8%) and France (7%). Top market players are Arab Printing Press, Chemaly & Chemaly, Dots, Ipex Printing Press and Raidy Printing Press.   MARKET OPPORTUNITIES:   Packaging: The sub-sector is expected to grow at an annual rate of 5% during the 2015-2019 in the MENA region, faster than global growth projections estimated at 4%. Lebanese printing companies are well positioned to meet the growing regional demand for packaging services. 3D Printing: Lebanon has great potential to be the leader in 3D printing in the MENA region given its highly-skilled labor force. The country is already home to the biggest 3D printer in the MENA region (Big Voxel) developed in 2015 to manufacture furniture and machine components. Security Printing: Lebanon has an advanced ICT ecosystem that enables it to develop innovative printing solutions with the use of the latest technologies. Security printing is already provided in the Lebanese market however there is potential to serve regional markets.   Sources: Lebanese customs, Ministry of Industry, Central Administration of Statistics, Arabnet

Invest in Regions

Lebanon is divided into 8 Governorates; Akkar, Baalbeck-Hermel, Beirut, Bekaa, Mount Lebanon, North Lebanon, Nabatiyeh, and South Lebanon.  The Governorate (Muhafazah) is considered an administrative division of the country. It is generally divided into Districts (Qada’a). Only Beirut has no division. In 2003, the number of governorates increased from six to eight, with the creation of two additional Baalbek-Hermel Governorate (formerly part of the Bekaa) and Aakkar Governorate (formerly part of North Lebanon). Each governorate boasts an abundance of investment opportunities based on its socio-economic environment and the natural resources it holds. You can find regional core strengths in agriculture, tourism, agro food, and soft industries. Those prominent regional economies offer a diverse investment environment for your business portfolio.

Who Can Benefit

All startups with an existing business plan in the ICT, Technology, Telecommunications, Agro-Tech, Digital Media, or other productive sectors will be eligible for IDAL’s support through the BSU.    For more information about the sectors please contact us.

Start Together

Beirut Governorate

Area Size: 19.8 Km2Population: 403,339 (as per latest estimates)Number of Projects that benefited from IDAL’s incentives: 18Unemployment Rate: 10%   LOCATION AND TOPOGRAPHY:  Beirut is the heart of the country. ts strategic location, strong educational and medical services, cosmopolitan character, and its wealth in archeological and cultural heritage has made it historically the hub of the Middle East. The city has been recognized as a hub for commercial, financial, touristic and artistic activities, Beirut with recently shaping up to become a center for startups in the Middle East. MAIN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY:  The economic activity in Beirut is based on the services sector mainly financial services with the presence of more than 67 commercial banks, four of which are among Forbes’ Top 100 Arab companies of 2016. More than 58% of ICT Software Development & Services companies are located in Beirut. More than 400 industrial firms are located in Beirut, with 24% of them involved in agro-food related activities. COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES:  More than 20 universities are available in Beirut including one of the top universities in the Middle East. Around 6 business incubators and accelerators are available to accommodate new start-ups and SMEs through facilitating access to capital, expertise and creating networking opportunities. The presence of Beirut Digital District (BDD), a business park that spanning over a built up area of 15,500m2 hosts local as well as foreign ICT companies, and to provide them with access to advanced IT services and fiber optics infrastructure at reduced rates. 6 Venture Capital Funds (Berythech Fund II, Leap Ventures, MEVP, IM Capital, Cedrus Ventures and B&Y Venture Partners ) that offer entrepreneurs with seed and growth capital to grow their businesses. The presence of the Port of Beirut which is one of the largest ports on the Eastern Mediterranean and forms a midpoint of Europe, Asia and Africa. Beirut was named Top International City for Food in 2016. INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES:  Technology: Opportunities exist in Fintech and E-payment solutions as mobile payments are gaining popularity and the number of mobile banking users in the MENA region is expected to reach 82.1 million users by 2017. Biotechnology and E-health solutions are competitive sub-sectors due to availability of skilled talent and synergies with other markets and industries. Investments in R&D facilities and Research Centers to serve multinational and local companies to undertake research and development activities in the agro-food, pharmaceutical and technology sectors.

Startup Support

We provide startups with all the needed information to set-up and run their business.

Business Matchmaking

The Business Matchmaking Platform (BMM) is an initiative launched by IDAL to support Lebanese companies amid the current economic crisis. It aims at connecting companies based in Lebanon with a network of investors interested to invest in their business.   The companies joining the platform will find strategic partners that help grow and expand business, while working with a professional team that will help in strengthening the company profile, make it more attractive for serious investors and give access to third-party legal & financial advice to help in the development of the business plan, valuation study, drafting shareholders agreement, etc.   The platform facilitates the process of raising capital and makes it more cost-efficient as the company become visible to a large pool of vetted investors.

ICT

The ICT sector in Lebanon has witnessed considerable government attention and reform over the last decade, transforming it into one of the most prominent economic sectors today. Its positive growth outlook for the coming years will be fueled by investments in the telecommunications infrastructure, modernization initiatives by both the public and private sector, and improvements to the business environment, resulting in greater demand for ICT services.   KEY FACTS AND FIGURES: In 2018, ICT contributed to around 2.1% of the Lebanon’s GDP, the equivalent of USD 1.1 billion.1 The sector’s total impact on GDP, whether direct or indirect, is forecasted to reach USD 7 billion by 2025.2 The ICT sector encompasses ICT Services and Manufacturing, Hardware Retail, and Telecommunications. Around 550 companies are involved in ICT Services and Manufacturing, which represents the most productive component. They are mostly small and medium-sized businesses.3 Around 10,150 high-skilled individuals are employed in ICT Services & Manufacturing companies, the majority falling in in the Software sub-sector ICT services exports have more than doubled over the last decade, growing from USD 329 million to USD 640 million between 2002 and 2017, the equivalent of a 6.9% CAGR.4 The GCC remains the largest market for Lebanese ICT companies.   COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES:   Talented & Cost-Competitive Workforce: Lebanon ranks 4th globally in the quality of its math and science education. The average Lebanese software engineer is tri-lingual, adaptable, solution-oriented and highly creative. The average wage of software engineers is 27% less than in GCC countries. Strong Support Network: Lebanon is home to a thriving technology ecosystem which comprises a dozens of incubators, accelerators, and mentorship and training institutions. Business-Friendly Regulations: Major legislative reforms are being implemented to improve the business framework in the country. Access to Finance: The government, private sector, and international organizations offer various financing schemes for SMEs operating in the technology sector, including equity and grant financing and loan guarantees. Enabling Infrastructure: The fiber-optic network is currently under deployment and will be completed by 2022. There are a variety of business parks that offer attractive packages and rates for tech companies, such as the Beirut Digital District. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES:   The ICT sector in Lebanon has demonstrated over the years a strong capacity for growth and a unique resilience in the face of regional economic uncertainties. Its export-oriented nature, low capital requirements, and robust regional and international demand make it an ideal sector for investment. A variety of opportunities exist across a broad spectrum of ICT activities:   1- Global/Regional Opportunities Fueling IT Outsourcing: Cloud Computing: In 2018, global revenues reached USD 197 billion and are expected to continue rising at an annual rate of 12.5% to reach USD 355 billion by 2022. Artificial Intelligence: The global AI market size was valued at USD 24.9 billion in 2018 and is anticipated to expand at an impressive CAGR of 46.2% from 2019 to 2025. Robotic Process Automation: The global RPA market size is expected to reach USD 11 billion by 2027, expanding at an annual rate of 34% from 2020 to 2027.   2- Opportunities Driven by Local Specialties: FinTech: The FinTech market is a prominent one in the MENA region, and Lebanon has a strong foothold in it compared to its relatively small size. There are 28 companies involved in FinTech-related activities. EdTech: EdTech is a highly promising industry which has been growing thanks to Lebanon’s renowned educational sector. With 16 EdTech startups in the country, there is a growing appetite today for Arabic educational content, notably in the GCC. HealthTech: Lebanon is a leading healthcare hub in the Arab world, headed by dozens of prominent private and public hospitals. These institutions are fueling the sector’s digitization. There are around 10 HealthTech startups in the country today.   Source:  1CAS, National Accounts, 2 Strategy&, 3IDAL ICT Database, 4World Bank

International Agreements

Lebanon has signed bilateral and multiple trade agreements with many Arab and European countries as part its trade liberalization agenda. It is also signatory of 54 bilateral investment agreements for the promotion and protection of investments.

Media

Lebanon is home to one of the most noteworthy Media industries in the Middle East. The Lebanese media sector is highly developed and consists of varied industries including television broadcasting, advertising services, audiovisual production, publishing, music production as well as new emerging markets such as Digital media. The industry is a major contributor to the Lebanese economy.   KEY FACT AND FIGURES:   The Media Industry accounted for nearly 3.75% of Lebanese GDP1 in 2014 and it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.8% between 2014 and 20182. The Media Sector comprises more than 450 companies and employ around 3.25% of the Lebanese labor force1. Lebanon’s advertising expenditures rank continuously amongst the highest in region with a total spending of USD 174.1 million in 20162. Digital advertising observed the highest growth for the past few years, rising at a CAGR of 51.2% between 2009 and 2015 and reaching USD 22.7 million2. The Media Industry spans across several fields: Television Broadcasting, Advertising, Production & Post Production, Digital Media, Publishing and Music.   COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES: Lebanon is a source of talent to the entire Arab region that is both highly skilled and cost competitive: Every year, some 700 students are estimated to graduate with a degree in the media field. Specialized universities and faculties ensure these students are fit to meet the market requirements; Workers are not only highly skilled with average wages usually 50%-60% lower than in GCC countries. Compared to the Gulf region, the Lebanese workforce is very cost efficient to investors in the field of advertising, Seven Lebanese universities offer courses in film production or audiovisual arts; Access to a large Middle Eastern market: Total household media consumption in the Middle East is considerably higher than in most developed markets, including the US, Japan, and European countries, with an average annual growth rate of 21.5% between 2010 and 20153; The market continues to be highly promising with a youthful population ensuring a continued rise in demand; 24.65% of the Lebanese population is under the age of 15 and 41.38% falls under the age of 25.  Similarly, at the regional level, the Arab world is home to a large youth population, 65% of whom under 302. Liberal media sector: The country has the most liberal media sector in the Middle East, with minimal to no restrictions on broadcasting and publishing activities. In the MENA region, Lebanon is one out of only three countries   to be classified as partially free and it is ranked the second highest in terms of Press Freedom Index. Diverse geography: Lebanon’s diverse geographic scene is considered very adequate for filming and production, facilitated with the presence of 250 days of sunlight, offering weather conditions and geographic areas adequate for shooting, and with diverse locations. Adequate legal framework: The Lebanese government has persistently spearheaded efforts to modernize media laws while playing an active role in enforcing intellectual property rights and regulations. Source: 1 Wipo – How to make a living in the creative industries 2017 2 Arab Media Outlook 2016-2018, 5th edition 3 McKinsey & Company Global Media Report 2016

Technology

Lebanon has witnessed a surge of high tech companies. These industries, characterized by high growth dynamics, are helping to create ample opportunities for pioneering and innovative companies in Lebanon.    KEY FACTS AND FIGURES:  Lebanon ranks 1st in the MENA region for Technological Readiness. Lebanon ranks 2nd in the MENA for Innovation.     COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES:    Highly skilled and multi-lingual labor force: Lebanon ranks 18th worldwide for the Quality of its higher Educational System and 4th for the quality its Math and Sciences Education. Competitive labor cost: the average wage of software engineers is 27% less than in the GCC and 55% less than in selected developed economies. Booming regional market for Tech services: Lebanon’s strategic position allows it to serve expanding markets. In 2016, high technology exports ≈ USD 32 million. Enabling Infrastructure: Companies operating out of Lebanon can benefit from an adequate infrastructure and an enabling business environment: Fixed broadband penetration rate ≈ 25.6% in 2016, the highest amongst the Levant countries and other MENA economies. Mobile broadband penetration rate ≈ 53.5% in 2016, up from 43% in 2013. A thriving supporting system: with the proliferation of incubators and business development centers and the increase of financial support by the government and international institutions.   MARKET OPPORTUNITIES: ICT Manufacturing: Opportunities are now emerging in the manufacturing and design of hardware components: Hardware sales are expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.3% over the 2016-2019 period. Medical Technologies: Lebanon’s well developed medical and health infrastructure underlies the country’s potential to offer services ranging from research to product and medical applications development: In 2017, health expenditures accounted for 7% of Lebanon’s GDP. The medical devices market is forecasted to reach USD 339.4 million by 2019. It has the highest ratio of doctors to population (35 per 10,000 people) in the region R&D potential: Lebanon enjoys a substantial scientific infrastructure and has the capacity to innovate and develop new products: Scientific and technical journal articles increased at a rate of 77% from 2010 to 2016. 12 higher education institutions that include science and/or technology faculties, and 6 research centers.

Doing Business

If you are looking for a place to invest in the Middle East, Lebanon is your best choice in the region. Lebanon’s strategic location, free market economy and liberal financial environment have traditionally played a key role in making Lebanon the most favored destination for investors. Its banking secrecy law, the soundness of its banking sector, which rank at par with the performance of banks of major developed economies, and its attractive corporate tax rates have played a major role in giving investors the continuous confidence to invest in Lebanon. Its qualified and competitive labor force have reinforced Lebanon as a strategic destination for high-value added investments.

Sectors in Focus

Lebanon’s moderate climate, rich soil, and abundant water resources provide it with key enablers to stand out in the region as an ideal location for agricultural activity. The country is endowed with the highest proportion of agricultural land in the Middle East. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, agricultural areas cover around 26% of the Lebanese territory (nearly equivalent to 2770 km2).

Legal Framework

Lebanon's investment legislation is simple and transparent seeking to facilitate the establishment of new businesses in Lebanon, and to ensure their viable growth and expansion. The multiple trade agreements and investment treaties signed over the last few years have further improved the investment climate in Lebanon, accelerating its integration into regional and global economies.   The Lebanese legal framework complies with international standards, offering equal treatment for local and foreign investors and presenting a suitable platform for businesses.   If you have any question, please do not hesitate to contact the BSU team to set up a meeting with our legal advisor for free.

Telecommunication

The growing demand of IT and mobile services in Lebanon and the MENA region has driven massive investments in Lebanon’s telecom infrastructure. The sector has achieved remarkable growth in the past few years, driven by various policy initiatives and government decisions to modernize and support the expansion of the sector. On July 1st 2015, the Ministry of Telecommunications launched the “Lebanon 2020 Digital Telecom Vision”. This project is a 5 year plan which aims to revamp the telecom infrastructure in the country, estimated to amount to USD 600 million in investment. It aims to make fiber-optic connectivity as well as 5G connections available throughout the country by the year 2020.   KEY FACTS AND FIGURES:   In 2016, fixed broadband penetration rates reached 25.6%, a considerable increase from 9.9% in 2013. This penetration rate is the  highest rate amongst the Levant countries and other MENA economies. In 2016, fixed telephone penetration rate reached 30.2%, higher than the average of Arab states (7.6%), and the world average (13.5%). In 2016, mobile telephone penetration rate reached 79%.   COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES:   Increasing investments by the government in IT infrastructure. Emergence of value added services and call centers as new niche sub-sectors. Incentives: IDAL offers companies engaged in the Telecom sector a set of incentives and facilitation services as per the Investment Law No.360. Competition is heavily enforced with new legislation that protects against abuses of market dominance and makes the market more efficient and free.

Startup Support

Lebanon’s startup ecosystem is booming with a number of different players working together to help startups throughout their journey. If you need any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the BSU team to set up a meeting with our legal and tax advisors for free.

AGRICULTURE EXPORTERS DIRECTORY

This directory provides you with basic information on the major fruits and vegetables exporters in Lebanon.

PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANIES DIRECTORY

This directory provides you with basic information on Lebanon's pharmaceutical manufacturers, their brands and countries of export.

DIRECTORY OF ICT COMPANIES IN LEBANON

This directory provides you with basic information on ICT companies in Lebanon, their contact information, product description, and export markets.

AGRICULTURE FACT BOOK

This publication provides you with basic information on the Agriculture sector in Lebanon.

AGROFOOD FACT BOOK

This publication provides you with basic information on the Agrofood sector in Lebanon.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FACT BOOK

This publication provides you with basic information on the Information Technology sector in Lebanon.

MEDIA FACT BOOK

This publication provides you with basic information on the Media sector in Lebanon.

PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY FACT BOOK 2014

This publication provides you with basic information on the Pharmaceutical Industry sector in Lebanon.

TECHNOLOGY FACT BOOK

This publication provides you with basic information on the Technology sector in Lebanon.

TELECOMMUNICATION FACT BOOK

This publication provides you with basic information on the Telecommunication sector in Lebanon.

TOURISM FACT BOOK

This publication provides you with basic information on the Tourism sector in Lebanon.

DIRECTORY OF CALL CENTERS IN LEBANON

This directory provides you with basic information on Call Centers in Lebanon, their contact information and services.

OLIVE OIL FACT BOOK

This publication provides you with basic information on the Olive Oil sector in Lebanon.

BUSINESS PROCESS OUTSOURCING FACT BOOK

This publication provides you with basic information on the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry in Lebanon.

AGROFOOD EXPORTERS DIRECTORY

This directory provides you with basic information on the major agrofood exporters in Lebanon.

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES MARKET OF RUSSIA

This publication provides you with basic information on the fruits and vegetables market of Russia.

DIRECTORY OF ICT COMPANIES IN LEBANON 2015

This directory provides you with basic information on ICT companies in Lebanon, their contact information, product description, and export markets.

THE ICT MARKET IN NIGERIA

This market report provides you with key insights into Nigerian market. It includes information on market trends, export and import activity, and key business opportunities.

THE ICT MARKET IN IVORY COAST

This market report provides you with key insights into Ivory Coast market. It includes information on market trends, export and import activity, and key business opportunities.

MEDIA FACT BOOK 2015

This publication provides you with basic information on the Media sector in Lebanon.

FILM INDUSTRY FACT BOOK 2015

This publication provides you with basic information on the Film Industry in Lebanon.

TELECOMMUNICATION FACT BOOK 2015

This publication provides you with basic information on the Telecommunication sector in Lebanon.

TECHNOLOGY FACT BOOK 2015

This publication provides you with basic information on the Technology sector in Lebanon.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FACT BOOK 2015

This publication provides you with basic information on the Information Technology sector in Lebanon.

ANNUAL REPORT 2014

2014’s Annual Report included the year’s overall investment climate and FDI trends along with IDAL’s achievements and activities on both the investment and export promotion front.

AGRICULTURE FACT BOOK 2015

This publication provides you with basic information on the Agriculture sector in Lebanon.

AGROFOOD FACT BOOK 2015

This publication provides you with basic information on the Agrofood sector in Lebanon.

DIRECTORY OF ICT COMPANIES IN LEBANON 2016

This directory provides you with basic information on ICT companies in Lebanon, their contact information, product description, and export markets.

BUSINESS PROCESS OUTSOURCING FACT BOOK 2016

This publication provides you with basic information on the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry in Lebanon.

THE ICT MARKET IN FRANCE

This market report provides you with key insights into French market. It includes information on market trends, export and import activity, and key business opportunities.

DIRECTORY OF AGRICULTURE EXPORTERS 2016

This publication provides you with basic information on the Agricultural Exporters in Lebanon.

Chemical Industry Fact Book 2016

This publication provides you with basic information on the Lebanese Chemical Industry in Lebanon.

PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY FACT BOOK 2016

This publication provides you with basic information on the Pharmaceutical Industry sector in Lebanon.

Fruit and Vegetable Market Brazil

This publication provides you with basic information on the fruits and vegetables market of Brazil.

Fruit and Vegetable Market Malaysia

This publication provides you with basic information on the fruits and vegetables market of Malaysia.

FRUIT AND VEGETABLE MARKET South Africa

This publication provides you with basic information on the fruits and vegetables market of South Africa.

PRINTING INDUSTRY FACT BOOK 2016

This publication provides you with basic information on the Printing Industry sector in Lebanon.

CLEAN TECHNOLOGY FACT BOOK 2016

This publication provides you with basic information on the Clean Technology sector in Lebanon.

Maritime Lebanese Exports Bridge (M.LEB) Program - Annual Report 2015

This report contains information on export performance and growth by product, analysis on fluctuation and trends.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FACT BOOK 2016

This publication provides you with information on the Lebanese ICT sector.

TELECOMMUNICATION FACT BOOK 2016

This publication provides you with information on the Lebanese Telecommunication sector.

Investment Opportunities in the ICT sector

This publication provides you with information on the Investment Opportunities in the ICT sector in Lebanon.

DIRECTORY OF CALL CENTERS 2016

This directory provides you with basic information on Call Centers in Lebanon, their contact information, product description, and export markets.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE AGRO FOOD SECTOR 2016

This publication provides you with information on the Investment Opportunities in the Agro-Food sector in Lebanon.

Agro-Food Fact Book 2016

This publication provides you with information on the Agro-Food sector in Lebanon.

AGRICULTURE FACT BOOK 2016

This publication provides you with information on the Agriculture sector in Lebanon.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE AGRICULTURE SECTOR 2017

This publication provides you with information on the Investment Opportunities in the Agriculture sector in Lebanon.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE TECHNOLOGY SECTOR 2016

This publication provides you with information on the Investment Opportunities in the Technology sector in Lebanon.

TECHNOLOGY FACT BOOK 2016

This publication provides you with information on the Lebanese Technology sector.

MARITIME LEBANESE EXPORTS BRIDGE (M.LEB) PROGRAM - ANNUAL REPORT 2016 (Arabic)

This report contains information on export performance and growth by product, analysis on fluctuation and trends.

FINTECH FACT BOOK 2017

This publication provides you with information on the Lebanese Fintech sector.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN LEBANON 2017

This publication provides you with information on the Investment Opportunities in Lebanon.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY FACT BOOK 2017

This publication provides you with information on the Lebanese IT sector.

FURNITURE & WOOD FACT BOOK 2017

This publication provides you with information on the Lebanese furniture and wood sector.

AGRO-FOOD FACT BOOK 2017

This publication provides you with information on the Lebanese Agro-Food sector.

AGRICULTURE FACT BOOK 2017

This publication provides you with information on the Agriculture sector in Lebanon.

OLIVE OIL FACT BOOK 2017

This publication provides you with information on the Olive Oil industry in Lebanon.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN LEBANON 2018

This publication provides you with information on the Investment Opportunities in Lebanon.

DIRECTORY OF CALL CENTERS IN LEBANON 2018

This directory provides you with basic information on call centers in Lebanon, their contact information and services.

DIRECTORY OF ICT COMPANIES IN LEBANON 2018

This directory provides you with basic information on ICT companies in Lebanon, their contact information and services.

ICT FACT BOOK 2018

This publication provides you with information on the ICT sector in Lebanon.

FINTECH FACT BOOK 2018

This publication provides you with information on the Fintech sector in Lebanon.

TECHNOLOGY FACT BOOK 2018

This publication provides you with information on the Technology sector in Lebanon.

CLEAN TECH FACT BOOK 2018

This publication provides you with information on the Clean Tech sector in Lebanon.

IDAL's EXPORT PROMOTION PROGRAMS 2018

This publication provides you with information on IDAL's export promotion programs.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE AGROFOOD SECTOR 2018

This publication provides you with information on the Investment Opportunities in the Agrofood sector in Lebanon.

AGROFOOD FACT BOOK 2018

This publication provides you with information on the Lebanese agrofood sector.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE ICT SECTOR 2018

This publication provides you with information on the Investment Opportunities in the ICT sector in Lebanon.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN LEBANON 2019

This publication provides you with information on the Investment Opportunities in Lebanon.

Pharmaceutical Industry Fact Book 2018

This publication provides you with basic information on the Pharmaceutical Industry sector in Lebanon.

TOURISM FACT BOOK 2019

This publication provides you with basic information on the Tourism sector in Lebanon.

AGRI-FOOD SECTOR IN LEBANON FACTBOOK 2020

This publication provides you with basic information on the Agri-Food Industry in Lebanon.

ICT SECTOR IN LEBANON FACTBOOK 2020

This publication provides you with basic information on the ICT sector in Lebanon.

IDAL's February Newsletter

In this issue you will find information on investment opportunities in the South of Lebanon along with the investment incentives that you can benefit from. The issue also highlights a successful Lebanese start-up in the Agro-Food business and a snapshot of enquiries for new potential investment projects received at IDAL. To download this issue, please click here.

IDAL'S MARCH NEWSLETTER

In this issue you will find information on investors wishing to re-locate to Lebanon as well as a full-brief on our website launch with a highlight on the various features available that could be of benefit to you. To download this issue, please click here.

North Lebanon Startup Weekend

The Center for Entrepreneurship at the Beirut Arab University and Start Up Weekend are organizing a start-up weekend in the North to encourage regional equality and equal opportunities from 26-28 April.   The aim of this event is to teach and promote entrepreneurship in local communities. It will bring developers, designers, marketers, product managers and startup enthusiasts together to share ideas, form teams, build products and launch startups. North Startup Weekend will begin with open-mic  60-second pitches that result in the formation of small teams around the best, most viable concepts.Team spend a Saturday and Sunday focusing on customer development, validating their ideas and building prototypes with the help of experienced mentors. On Sunday, teams demo their products and receive valuable feedback from a panel of experts.

IDAL'S APRIL NEWSLETTER

In this issue you will find information on how IDAL is supporting startups along with a brief on four projects in the tourism, information technology, and services sector that might open soon in Lebanon and benefit from IDAL’s incentive scheme.This issue also highlights the major events we took part in, in the month of April. To download this issue, please click here.

IDAL'S MAY NEWSLETTER

In this issue, you will find information on investment news in Lebanon, a zoom-in on a successful Lebanese company called Smart Source, as well as a round-up of last month's events. Featured in this newsletter is an article on Lebanon in the New European Magazine as well as our latest publication's release.To download this issue, please click here. 

IDAL'S JUNE NEWSLETTER

In this issue, you will find information on potential projects in Q1 and Q2, the 2012 annual report, a zoom-in on a successful Lebanese company called Call Center International, as well as a round-up of last month's events. Featured in this newsletter is also our latest publication's release, a Guide on Licenses and Permits in Lebanon.  To download this issue, please click here.

IDAL'S JULY NEWSLETTER

In this issue you will find information on the latest released FDI figures for 2012 by both the UNCTAD and the AIEGC along with our latest investor traffic report. Featured in this newsletter is also our latest publications’ release, including the 2012 Annual Report. To download this issue, please click here.

CENTRAL BANK TO INTRODUCE MEASURES TO ENCOURAGE START-UPS

Lebanese Central Bank Governor Riad Salameh said the country will introduce measures to encourage startup companies in a bid to spur economic growth amid political instability.   Under the changes, to be announced this month, banks will be allowed to invest as much as 3% of their own funds in startup companies. The central bank will provide banks with interest-free credit lines for the projects. This will not be a debt investment but a capital investment with a system in place that will cover the risks of start-ups investments to up to 75%.   The stimulus package will be the second the central bank has introduced this year. The central bank in January provided USD 1.35 billion to banks at 1% interest rate to boost lending for new businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, housing and the renewable energy industry.   For more information, please click here.

Agro Invest Exhibition & Conference

With the aim of "promoting innovative investments in the Agro-food industry", The Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Saida and South of Lebanon (CCIAS) and the South Business Innovation Center (SouthBIC) are organising a conference on Wednesday September 18, 2013.    The conference will be held at the Auditorium of the CCIAS in Saida and will bring together Agro-industrialists and key actors of this value chain from across the country to discuss important issues related to the sector trends and development in Lebanon and the innovation in the Agro-Industry.  Conference speakers include representatives from concerned institutions such as IDAL, BDL, Qualeb, Kafalat in addition to other experts from international organizations. These speakers and other breakout session presenters will be leading discussions related to the investments and innovations in the agro-industry businesses.   On the margins of the conference an exhibition will be inaugurated at the BEC (Business Exhibitions Center in Saida) under the patronage of the European Union Ambassador Angelina Eichhorst. The exhibition will be held from 18-21 September.    It will be a pleasure if you can attend and drop by our booth to find out how we can support you in your exports or your investments.   Please check the program for more information.

IDAL'S OCTOBER NEWSLETTER

In this issue you will find information on our investor traffic and the economy, a special feature on the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry, along with a snapshot on what the government is doing to improve the business environment. To download this issue, please click here.

FEBRUARY NEWSLETTER

In this issue you will find information on Lebanon’s recently launched private industrial zones, the latest findings from the IIF report, and a study on the foreign companies that opened in Lebanon in 2013. To download this issue, please click here.

MARCH NEWSLETTER

In this issue we will be covering the Chinese interest in exporting Lebanese Agro-Food products, as well as a snapshot of the major foreign and local companies establishing their business in Lebanon in Quarter I of this year. You can also find further information on the types of incentives that you can benefit from if you choose to establish your business in the newly launched private industrial zones. To download this issue, please click here.

Lebanese Week in Jeddah

We participated at the Lebanese Week in Jeddah event which was organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Agriculture in Beirut and Mount Lebanon in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce in Jeddah. Chairman of IDAL, Mr. Nabil Itani took part in the opening of the event highlighting Lebanon’s FDI performance, Lebanese exports and deposits in the Lebanese banks. Itani also emphasized on the importance of Saudi investments in Lebanon which so far have created investment opportunities in several economic sectors. Mr. Itani met on the margins of the event many officials and Saudi businessmen.

Annual Investment Meeting

Our staff has attended the Annual Investment Meeting which took place in Dubai from 8-10 April. The workshop gathered key policy makers to discuss means to increase investments to emerging markets. Many topics were discussed including the following: (1) The role of Incentives in attracting investments: more specifically the experience of other countries highlighted the limited role that incentives currently play in impacting investor decisions. Incentives have often been used by policy makers to offset a sub-optimal investment environment thus creating short term solutions which are not sustainable in the long-run.  The Scottish Development Agency for example shifted its strategy from promoting incentives to focusing on local talent base, cost of labor and level of universities. The other topic which was discussed is (2) the importance of information in attracting investments and more specifically the role of investment promotion agencies in that regard. Finally, the workshop addressed the (3) policy options available to investors to counter political risk in emerging markets.

APRIL NEWSLETTER

In this issue you will find information on upcoming investment projects in Lebanon in various sectors. Additionally,we have put together an abridged version of a white paper on the subject of political and economic risk management. To download this issue, please click here.

OCTOBER NEWSLETTER

In this issue you will find updated news on Lebanon's economic and investment performance; covering new projects, economic indicators, and investment opportunities along with a snapshot of our activities during the past month. To download this issue, please click here.

EUROMED Migration Profile Process

Our team was part of the Lebanese delegation that is participating in the EUROMED Migration Profile Process Regional Meeting in Jordan.  The overall objective of this project is to foster cooperation on migratory issues between the European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI) South Partner Countries and EU Member States, as well as between ENI South Partner Countries themselves. The project also aims to assist partners in their efforts to manage various forms of migration through evidence-based and coherent migration policies. The MPP Regional Meeting in Liege in November 2013 was the first stage, the next phase had two regional high-level workshops organized in Rotterdam and Berlin in June and October. The meeting in Jordan in November took stock of progress both at regional and national level and shaped the way forward for this central component of the EUROMED Migration framework.

"The Time to Invest in the Media Sector" Conference

We organized a conference titled 'Invest in Media' at the Cinemacity in Beirut Souks in partnership with Fondation Liban Cinema to encourage investments in the sector, in particular film production.The event was under the patronage and presence of the Minister of Information and Minister of Culture whereby they foresaw the signing of a memorandum of understanding between IDAL, represented by Chairman Nabil Itani and Fondation Liban Cinema, represented by its President Mrs. Maya de Freige. The conference included three panels of discussion covering investment opportunities, challenges, support and new sector trends.

JULY NEWSLETTER

In this issue you will find the latest information on the ICT sector and its investments opportunities. Additionally, get inspired with the Big Booster, a competition proposed to startups from Europe, the Middle east and Africa in the sciences, innovative tech and sustainable development. To download this issue, please click here.  

Info-Session at SGBL

Chairman of IDAL, Mr. Nabil Itani, lead a discussion with key executives from the SGBL Bank on investment incentives and opportunities in Lebanon. The banking sector is considered a main strategic partner for IDAL as they play a key role in the investment value chain through guidance and funding.

Gulfood Fair

IDAL’s chairman, Eng. Nabil Itani, participated at the at the opening of the Lebanese Pavilion in Gulfood Fair, organized in Dubai between February 19th  and 21th, 2016, in the presence of the Lebanese consul in Dubai Sami Nmeir and the president of Syndicate of Lebanese Food industrialists (SLFI) Ahmad Hoteit, as well as many Lebanese participants. During the opening, Eng. Itani stated that the food industry in Lebanon is very promising since it has the potential and readiness for growth. He considered that Lebanon's participation in this exhibition emphasizes the regional and global presence of the Lebanese food industry and its ability to compete. Itani said that this exhibition is an important platform for the sector`s exports towards the Arab and international markets, in light of the growing popularity of Mediterranean cuisine in general and Lebanese products in particular, and of the deployment of the Lebanese diaspora in several countries in the region and in the world.  He added: "Gulfood is an enticing event for Food Industries from all over the world and the region. Lebanon has begun to take its role in regional and global markets in line with the growth achieved by the food industry in terms of production quality, packaging or export." The Gulfood, which hosts annually more than 5,000 exhibitors - food industrialists, receives 90 thousand visitors from 160 countries from around the world. 53Lebanese industrialists have participated in this year`s version, 40 of them within the Lebanese Pavilion, and 13 in sectoral wings.

Technical workshop on how to do business in the EU and the Netherlands

IDAL, represented by Chairman Nabil Itani, participated as a partner at the “How to Do Business in the EU and Netherland” technical workshop held at the Movenpick Hotel – Beirut on April 7th, 2016. This workshop was co-organized by the Embassy of Netherland and the Lebanese Dutch Business Association. The event was packed with investors, exporters and entrepreneurs discussing the business opportunities in the Agriculture, Agrofood and Industrial sectors between Lebanon and the EU countries. 60 representatives from different Lebanese companies, establishments and ministries took part of the event elaborated to support Lebanese exporters’ access new markets and expand their businesses. Mr Hans Verhulst and Mr Ari Bijil provided the attendees through presentations, cases studies and success stories with detailed information on the EU standards and requirements and how the Lebanese products could have a competitive edge there. IDAL distributed a survey on the attendees to collect information about the ability of the attendees to export and enter these markets in ordered to conduct a census including the information on the products exported to Europe and Netherland and to check what are the attendees’ needs regarding these markets (standards, requirements, documents, importers…). 46.7% of the attendees filled out these surveys, and all of them are willing to enter the European market. 20% of the agricultural exporters who attended the workshop have been exporting to Europe, compared to 37.5% of the agro-food exporters and 22.2% of the industrial exporters. The main exported products were: Agriculture products: Malus; Citrus; Grapes; Potatoes; Onions; Flowers and Plants. Agro-food products: Olive Oil; Thyme; Oregano and Alcoholic Beverages. Industrial products: Paint; Copper and Metal Valves.

15 Years Anniversary

Under the patronage of the President of the Council of Ministers Mr. Tammam Salam, we celebrated today 15 years to the enactment of Investment Law No.360 in the presence of ministers, ambassadors of Arab and Foreign states, heads and members of economic factions as well as investors. The event which took place at the Grand Serail, was an opportunity to honor 5 countries who positively contributed to the Lebanese economy and to the investment climate; namely KSA, UAE, UK, Italy and South Africa. As we reflect on the past 15 years of achievements, we are looking forward to a new milestone where Lebanon is and forever will be the thriving heart of business in the Middle East.

Press conference for the launch of Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal's 2nd Emigrants Economic Forum

Chairman of IDAL, Mr. Nabil Itani, took part today in the press conference for the launch of Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal's 2nd Emigrants Economic Forum taking place on July 14 at the Movenpick Hotel, Beirut. IDAL who is a strategic sponsor of the forum will have a dedicated panel discussion on "The Intrinsic Role of Emigrants in supporting Economic Development and Investment in Lebanon". More information on the event and registration details can be found on this link.

B2I program in cooperation with Berytech and the Lebanese Canadian IT Association (ATILC)

In cooperation with the Lebanese Canadian IT Association (ATILC) and Berytech, IDAL launched the “Bridge to Innovation (B2I)” program targeting Lebanese businessmen in the field of knowledge.

Visit of Brazilian ambassador in Lebanon

The Chairman of IDAL Eng. Nabil Itani, welcomed  the Brazilian ambassador in Lebanon George Kadri accompanied by the Dubai Chief executive officer of APEX Caren Jones. Discussions tackled the enhancement of bilateral economic relations between Lebanon and Brazil. Itani highlighted the importance of the Lebanese community's role in Brazil in terms of promoting economic and investment relations in particular, pointing out that Lebanon has all the advantages to play a key role in the Middle East region, serving as a hub to the foreign companies to reach the region.  

launch of an apple chips factory in the Jezzine

IDAL organized a press conference today at its headquarters to announce the launch of an apple chips factory in the Jezzine area. IDAL`s Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani declared that the importance of this plant lies in the establishment procedure, which is based on the formation of a joint stock company in which Jezzine citizens, residents and expatriates, can subscribe. This importance also extends to include the positive effect on the agricultural and agrofood sectors, as well as job creation, economic development of the Lebanese regions and balanced development among them.

IDAL's session at the LDE

IDAL lead a session at the LDE in Sao Paulo on Exploring Opportunities through the Lebanese Diaspora: Investment in Lebanon/Triangular trade. The session started with a keynote speech from Chairman Itani and was moderated by renowned journalist of Lebanese origins Mr. Guga Chacra. IDAL was also present at the event through a contact point booth where investors interested to know more about doing business in Lebanon were able to be equipped with the relevant information for an informed decision.

Arabnet 2017

IDAL was present at this year’s Arabnet conference to announce the services of its business support unit for startups. IDAL had a booth at the conference with free live legal and auditing advice to all startups wishing to open and operate a business in Lebanon.Our business support services include an array of options from advice on legal structures, financing options, and commercial information to advice on capital needed, fiscal exemptions and others.

Visit of the Tunisian Delegation

Chairman of IDAL Eng. Nabil Itani met Tunisian Ambassador to Lebanon Karim Boudali. The discussions tackled ways of cooperation to enhance the Lebanese and the Tunisian investments and encourage businessmen. Discussions tackled also joint steps to be performed by IDAL and the Tunisian investment authority to promote and facilitate investments, such as drafting a memorandum of understanding to support investments in both countries.

Lebanese Economic Forum

IDAL participated at the Lebanese Economic Forum, held under the auspices of the Prime Minister Mr. Saad Hariri. IDAL`s intervention during the first session focused on the economic and investment indicators in Lebanon, as well as on sectors showing readiness for investment like health tourism, media, information and communication technology, food industry, technology, agriculture and the pharmaceutical industry.

Meeting with a delegation of Lebanese investors

H.E. Prime Minister Saad Hariri met with a delegation of Lebanese investors who benefited from IDAL’s incentives schemes in the last few years, in the presence of the Chairman of IDAL Mr. Nabil Itani and the Prime Minister’s Development Advisor Mr. Fadi Fawaz.The meeting was in the form of an open discussion whereby the investors presented solutions to improving the doing business environment in order to increase the competitiveness of Lebanese companies in international markets.

8th meeting of the Lebanese-Egyptian Higher Committee

In the framework of the 8th meeting of the Lebanese-Egyptian Higher Committee, which is currently organized in Cairo, the technical committee emergent from the MOU signed between IDAL and GAFI held its first meeting. IDAL`s Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani and GAFI Chairman Mr. Mohamed Khudair discussed ways of cooperation to implement the agreement through enhancing investment cooperation, promoting the investment opportunities available in the two countries, exchanging information and instigating mutual initiatives, and providing training opportunities in the field of investment legislation and investment promotion.

Visit of the Bulgarian Delegation

The Chairman of IDAL Eng. Nabil Itani discussed with a delegation of Bulgarian businessmen the enhancement of bilateral relations between the two countries. The delegation visited IDAL under the chairmanship of Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov, head of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bulgaria, accompanied by the head of the Lebanese-Bulgarian Business Council Ahmad Alaa Eddin. Eng. Itani spoke about the role of Lebanon which could serve as a hub for foreign companies to access Middle Eastern markets, declaring that the Lebanese expatriates all over the world could enhance the access of products and goods beyond the borders of this region.

Silk Road Conference

IDAL participated in the Silk Road Conference organized by the Fransabank Group and the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce. Chairman Nabil Itani said that the “Belt and Road” initiative is a considered to be a strategic cooperation project, based on joint building and integration of development strategies in countries along the belt and the road to achieve economic prosperity, unleash the potential of the market, stimulate investment, generate job opportunities and enhance human and cultural exchange. Itani called upon taking advantage of this initiative by organizing workshops aiming at boosting this cooperation and setting recommendations to enhance it.

info session on "The Tracking System for Agricultural Products and its Role in the Penetration of International Markets"

In cooperation with the TUV office, IDAL organized an info session on "The Tracking System for Agricultural Products and its Role in the Penetration of International Markets" at the CCIAZ. Chairman Nabil Itani stressed the importance of the tracking system as it governs each stage and each phase of product processing and packaging, to ensure good management of food safety. He declared that the year 2016 is an achievement in itself for the agricultural sector, as we have been able to stop the decline in the volume of exports occurred in the previous years. The Agri Plus figures were maintained at the recorded level in 2015, with agricultural exports reaching 350,000 tons.

Smartex Conference and Exhibition

As a strategic partner, IDAL sponsored the Smartex Conference and Exhibition, which was inaugurated under the patronage of Minister of Telecommunications Mr. Gamal Al Jarrah. In his speech during the opening ceremony, IDAL`s Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani focused on the importance of the ICT sector and its role in contributing to the development of the productive sectors. He also tackled innovation and entrepreneurship and the role of young people in launching creative ideas and turning these ideas into projects.

Visit of Pakistani businessmen delegation

IDAL welcomed today a delegation of Pakistani businessmen headed by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) represented by Mr. Inam Ullah Khan and H.E. Mr. Aftab Ahmad Khokher, Ambassador of Pakistan to Lebanon. The delegation's interests were mainly in textile, IT services, food processing, and pharmaceuticals and were looking to enhance trade and investment with Lebanon.

Arabnet Digital Summit

IDAL spearheaded the participation of 8 companies in the Technology sector at the Investment and Innovation Forum, part of the Arabnet Digital Summit in Dubai.  This sponsorship came in harmony with what the Lebanese government is trying to do : to open new markets for them, introduce them to potential investors and to promote for their exports. Simultaneously, Nabil Itani, Chairman of IDAL participated at the Digital Policy round-table for government officials on "Stimulating Innovation and Entrepreneurship" held on the margins of the Summit.  

Fancy Food Show 2017

 As part of its support to the productive sectors, particularly the agro-food industry, IDAL sponsored the Lebanese Pavilion at the Fancy Food Show, which took place in New York on June 25, 2017. IDAL`s Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani stressed the importance of this initiative, which aims at providing the means of support for the participation of Lebanese agro-food industries in such exhibitions, especially that the US market is very promising. He stated that the objective of this participation is to introduce Lebanese products to US markets and to increase their exports to that country, as well as the introduction to novelties in the production and packaging fields, in addition to the creation of an exchange platform between exporters and commercial centers in both Americas.

Visit of Egyptian Ambassador in Lebanon

IDAL’s chairman Eng. Nabil Itani discussed ways to strengthen economic relations with the Egyptian Ambassador in Lebanon Nazih Al-Najari. Eng. Itani said that there are many economic sectors in Lebanon which have promising investment opportunities, namely agrofood industries, hospital tourism, medicines, media and information technology. Najari expressed his country's desire to increase Lebanese exports to Egypt by importing more Lebanese products, especially agricultural ones.

Meeting with the Syndicate of the Lebanese Agrofood Industrialists

In anticipation of the Anuga exhibition, which will be held on Oct. 7-11 in Cologne, Germany, IDAL`s Chairman, Nabil Itani held a preparatory meeting with the Syndicate of the Lebanese Agrofood Industrialists to discuss details of participation and ways to enhance the Lebanese products access to European markets. This participation aims at increasing Lebanese products exports in addition to the establishment of an exchange platform between exporters and commercial centers in Europe.

Arabnet conference 2018

IDAL was present at this year’s Arabnet conference to announce the services of its Business Support Unit (BSU) for startups. IDAL had a booth at the conference with free live legal and auditing advice to all startups wishing to open and operate a business in Lebanon. Our business support services include an array of options from advice on legal structures and audit services, financing options, and commercial information to advice on capital needed, fiscal exemptions and others.

Dabbousi visit

IDAL`s Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani discussed with the President of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Tripoli Toufic Dabboussi the possibility of opening a Business Support Unit at the Chamber's headquarters in Tripoli. Itani briefed his guest on the services provided by the recently launched unit at IDAL and the support it provides to startups and entrepreneurs.

LDE Conference

IDAL's participation at the LDE Conference, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Australia, was a great opportunity to promote the investment climate and the business environment in Lebanon. The conference was also an opportunity for IDAL`s Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani to meet with expatriates in Sydney and Melbourne, where expatriate affairs were discussed, focusing on how to involve the Lebanese abroad in the development process in Lebanon. On the sidelines of the conference, IDAL's pavilion witnessed the visit of a great number of expatriate businessmen who were briefed on the services and facilities provided by IDAL.

Smartex Conference and Exhibition 2018

 As a strategic partner, IDAL sponsored the Smartex Conference and Exhibition, which was inaugurated under the patronage of the Minister of Communications Jamal Al Jarrah. In his speech during the opening ceremony, IDAL`s Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani highlited the importance of the ICT sector and its contribution to the development of the productive sectors. The main focus was on the innovation and entrepreneurship role in launching creative ideas and turning them into projects.

Meeting with the Secretary General of the Federation of Arab Chambers Dr. Khaled Hanafi

IDAL's Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani discussed with the Secretary General of the Federation of Arab Chambers Dr. Khaled Hanafi the enhancement of the economic relations between Arab countries through the strengthening and the increase of inter-Arab trade, the activation of inter-Arab investments and the attraction of FDI to the region. They stressed the need to keep pace with modern technology and encourage entrepreneurship and its role in inspiring Arab youth to launch innovative ideas and turn them into projects.

South Lebanon Visit

Within its support to the Lebanese agricultural exports, IDAL`s chairman, Eng. Nabil Itani, visited a number of agricultural investment projects in South Lebanon, checking the standards adopted within the framework of the Agri Plus program. Eng. Itani declared that 20 % of the packing houses in the South have been awarded HACCP and ISO certificates.  Lebanese products are facing strong competition abroad, where quality and packaging play a crucial role. Lebanese agricultural exports have been in line with strict conditions set by some countries for food safety.

the immigrants' reunion 2018

In its capacity as a gold sponsor, IDAL supported the immigrants' reunion 2018 organized by the LIBC at the Phoenicia Hotel under the patronage of the Prime Minister Saad Hariri. IDAL`s intervention at the “New vision for Investment in ICT future” session focused on the sector potential and the promising opportunities it offers. IDAL deploys every effort to promote Lebanon as an ICT platform in the region based on the enabling environment which boosts among others business accelerators, incubators and funds that provide financing to investors in this sector.

"Enhancing the Work of Small and Medium Enterprises in Lebanon" workshop

IDAL's Chairman, Eng. Nabil Itani, presented a proposal for the establishment of One Product One Cluster Initiative to be included in the reform agenda of the government. He said that these clusters will contribute to the economic growth in Lebanon through the generation of new job opportunities, the increase of the Lebanese competitiveness, the enhancement of innovation and entrepreneurship and the grow of exports` capacity. Eng. Itani was speaking during a workshop organized by the Ministry of Economy on "Enhancing the Work of Small and Medium Enterprises in Lebanon".

“Investment Policy Review” - special meeting on Lebanon

Mr. Nabil Itani, Chairman of IDAL, headed the Lebanese delegation to the special meeting on Lebanon held at the UN headquarters in Geneva, in cooperation with UNCTAD to present the “Investment Policy Review”. Eng. Itani assured that Lebanon is capable of implementing the review`s articles based on its competitive advantages. The recommendations focused on a series of procedures, mainly the revision of the legal framework for investment, reforms of the business environment, the development of a strategy to promote investment and the enhancement of IDAL`s role.

Training course for the newly appointed economic attachés

In cooperation with the Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, IDAL organized a two-day training course for the newly appointed economic attachés in 20 Lebanese embassies worldwide, focusing on the investment climate and the enhancement of Lebanese-international relations. The Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani, said that the work will be closely with the attachés to attract more foreign direct investment, which will reflect positively on the socio-economic sectors in Lebanon.

Industrial Stakeholders' Meeting

Chairman Nabil Itani presided over an industrial stakeholders' meeting organized by IDAL to get feedback from Lebanese industrialists on suggested reforms and programs to enhance exports and investments in the sector.The industrialists were represented by Dr. Fadi Gemayel, President of the Association of Lebanese Industrialists.

SmartEx Exhibition 2019

IDAL has participated in the official opening of the SmartEx Exhibition in its capacity as a strategic partner. The exhibition which attracts individuals and companies from the technology sector has become a leading platform to showcase innovations and open up networking opportunities. IDAL moderated a Tech Talk at SmartEx Exhibition on April 12 with Hassane Slaibi, CEO and Co-Founder of Band Industries, as a Lebanese success story.

conference "Generating Job Opportunities for Lebanese Youth in the Local, International and Gulf Labor Market: Challenges and Sustainable Solutions"

IDAL, represented by its Chairman Mr. Nabil Itani, participated at the conference "Generating Job Opportunities for Lebanese Youth in the Local, International and Gulf Labor Market: Challenges and Sustainable Solutions", held in the Saray. The participants discussed the situation of the Lebanese labor market and the reform policies and programs to improve the operational growth and create job opportunities for Lebanese youth.

Visit of the President of ANIMA Investment Network Abdelkader Betari

IDAL’s Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani discussed with the President of ANIMA Investment Network Abdelkader Betari the investment situation in the Mediterranean region. The meeting also tackled the activation of Lebanon's membership in this network and its role in the framework of the investment activities organized for the member states. ANIMA is a platform for cooperation for economic development for the Mediterranean countries.

ArabNet 2019

IDAL sponsored the tenth edition of the ArabNet Conference held on June 12, 2019 under the auspices of the President of the Lebanese Republic, as part of its strategy to support the IT sector. Chairman Nabil Itani spoke about the Fostering the Digital Economy on the second day of the conference.

Visit to Neumann Project

A unique tech experience in the Cedars! Neumann is a Lebanese tech company that has developed an automated all-in-one analytical artificial intelligence platform to process real time data. Neumann has received financial incentives and business support from IDAL upon establishment and has created 22 job opportunities.We have visited Neumann as part of our routine visits to the investment projects that have benefited from IDAL’s incentives.

The handover ceremony took place between IDAL's former Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani and newly appointed chairman Dr. Mazen Soueid

The handover ceremony took place between IDAL's former Chairman Eng. Nabil Itani and newly appointed chairman Dr. Mazen Soueid in the presence of new board members and the staff. Dr. Suweid praised the efforts exerted by Itani over the past 15 years to maintain the agency in the most difficult circumstances. He also stressed the importance of promoting it to become a Lebanese success story that everyone needs.

Gitex 2019

IDAL, represented by its newly appointed Chairman Dr. Mazen Soueid, participated in the GITEX Exhibition, held in Dubai from 6 to 9 October, sponsoring the Lebanese Pavilion, which was attended by 21 startups and SMEs.Dr. Soueid stressed out that IDAL will be the main partner of the information technology sector through various ways and means to support this sector and strengthen its role in establishing the knowledge economy and keeping pace with the continuous technological advancements.

18th edition of the Global Forum for Entrepreneurs and Investment

IDAL, represented by its Chairman Dr. Mazen Sweid, participated in the 18th edition of the Global Forum for Entrepreneurs and Investment held in Manama, Bahrain between 11 and 13 November 2019. DLOC Biosystems, a leading Lebanese startup, won the Finals of the Arab Entrepreneurship Rally organized by UNIDO on the sidelines of the Forum. DLOC is an innovative platform in the medical and pharmaceutical fields to examine the effect of the drug on the human body.

IDAL Provides Lebanese Companies Access to Global Bids

Given the challenging times the country is going through, and as part its mission to help Lebanese companies access new markets and providing them with business opportunities,  IDAL is launching a new service to monitor, collect and share existing bids for global projects to which Lebanese companies can apply to. IDAL with the support of its economic attaches in Lebanese embassies abroad can provide applicants with information on doing business in the selected country where the bid is taking place and can organize targeted workshops when needed. This service will be made available for ICT companies, with a plan to expand to other sectors in the near future. If you are in the ICT sector and wish to receive the list of bids on a monthly basis, please contact us.

Meeting with the Association of Lebanese Industrialists

IDAL Chairman Dr. Mazen Soueid held a meeting with the Association of Lebanese Industrialists to announce the "Business Matching Platform" and receive their feedback on it. Part of many initiatives taken by IDAL to confront the current economic crisis. The platform, which would be launched soon by IDAL, aims at providing an opportunity for Lebanese companies in the productive sectors to attract new partners and expand and grow their business in these difficult circumstances.

Visit of A delegation from the Bekaa Industrialists' Association

A delegation from the Bekaa Industrialists' Association, headed by Nicolas Abou Faisal, visited IDAL where they were briefed on the services and facilities provided and the programs IDAL is working to launch in order to support the productive sectors. The Chairman, Dr. Mazen Soueid, stressed the necessity of replacing imports with a local industry, with the necessity of boosting exports in order to attract foreign currency into the Lebanese market.

Visit to Tripoli

IDAL's Chairman Dr. Mazen Soueid stressed the necessity of transforming challenges into opportunities that contribute to developing the productive sectors through capitalizing companies and boosting exports. The announcement came during a visit to Tripoli, where he met the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Toufic Dabboussi, and toured the city's amenities, including the Port and the Rashid Karami Exhibition.

Meeting with the former Minister of Economy Dr. Raed Khoury

IDAL CEO Dr. Mazen Soueid discussed with the former Minister of Economy Dr. Raed Khoury the relaunch of the McKinsey plan and the initiatives proposed therein, notably those related to IDAL`s work. This plan was put in place by the previous government in order to revive and support the productive sectors.

WORKSHOP HOSTING THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE MR. Abbas Mortada

IDAL hosted the Minister of Agriculture Abbas Mortada heading a work group from the Ministry to discuss cooperation between the two parties in supporting the agricultural sector. Participants stressed the fact that agriculture is not a luxury, but rather an existential issue, emphasizing the need to strengthen this sector as one of the main pillars of the productive sectors, especially in light of the relentless efforts to transform the national economy from a rentier economy to a productive economy.

Tripoli Day at IDAL

IDAL organized the "Tripoli Day at IDAL", presenting the project of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Tripoli for the development of Tripoli, the "National Economic Organization from Greater Tripoli", in the presence of Minister of Public Works Michel Najjar, Chairman of IDAL, Dr. Mazen Soueid and Chairman of the Tripoli Chamber, Toufic Daboussi. The project, which extends over an area of 21 million square meters, identifies development and growth opportunities along the coastal region from Tripoli to Klayaat Airport, and consists of an international regional port, a regional airport with international advanced specifications and a service platform for oil and gas, which would constitute a large area for business and investment.

WORKSHOP HOSTING the Minister of Economy and Trade Raoul Nehm

IDAL organized a workshop, hosting Minister of Economy and Trade Raoul Nehme to discuss amendments to the implementation decrees of the Investment Law. Minister Nehme stressed the need to expand the scope of IDAL's work to ease business and remove obstacles. IDAL`s Chairman, Dr. Mazen Soueid, stated that the best thing the government could do is to facilitate the work of investors by reducing the bureaucracy and red tape.

IDAL signs a memorandum of understanding with FLC

In cooperation with Fondation Liban Cinéma (FLC) and under the patronage of the Minister of Information Mr. Ramzi Jreij and the Minister of Culture Mr. Raymond Areiji, IDAL held a conference entitled “Invest in the Media Sector”.

IDAL, a strategic partner in the “investment opportunities in the digital and information technology sector in Lebanon”

IDAL, represented by its Chairman, Mr. Nabil Itani, participated as a strategic partner in the conference entitled “Investment opportunities in the digital and Information Technology sector in Lebanon” that was held at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.

IDAL Honors Media

IDAL organized a dinner in honor of Lebanese media professionals. This event, held under the auspices and in the presence of the Minister of Information, Melhem Riachi.

IDAL participates in China-Arab State Cooperation Forum

A delegation of IDAL attended the 7th China-Arab Entrepreneur Conference & the 5th Investment Seminar, China-Arab States Business Summit 2017 in China.

Meeting with the former Minister of Economy

VTR Beirut Post Production Facilities

This facility specializes in video teleciné, editing and special effects. The project is located in Beirut.   Sub-sector: Production FacilitiesInvestment Size: USD 10 millionJobs Created: 33Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: Lebanese – BritishApproval Date: 2005Operation Date: ClosedType of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Four Seasons Hotel

The Four Seasons Hotel is one of the first investment projects that were mediated by IDAL, located in downtown Beirut. It offers terraced hotel rooms, a rooftop lounge, a luxurious spa, and other state-of-the-art facilities. It holds 230 rooms.   Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 130.5 millionJobs Created: 246Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: Saudi ArabianApproval Date: 2004Operation Date: 2010Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Webiste: www.fourseasons.com/beirut   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Advanced Security Printing Solutions

The company consists of producing secure printed documents for official uses, such as passports, ID cards, ballot papers, etc. It is one of its kind in Lebanon and the region and puts Lebanon on the map of digital printing solutions.  Sub-sector: Paper Products/ PackagingInvestment Size: USD 11.3 millionJobs to be Created: 102Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2012Operation Date: -Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.inkript.com For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

NPPC Fresh Produce Factory

NPPC is a center for fruit and vegetable packaging established in Taanayel, the Bekaa. The project has a positive impact on the local economy and creates competition with existing packaging centers by applying more cost-effective packaging technologies.   Sub-sector: PackagingInvestment Size: USD 11.3 millionJobs Created: 37Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: KuwaitiApproval Date: 2007Operation Date: ClosedType of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC) For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

ICT

Mada Communications, a Kuwaiti communications company active in both Kuwaiti and Jordanian markets, launched Waves S.A.L, the locally registered company that will be managing Mada services and provide DSP services. Waves introduced the Mobile Broadband Wireless Access System (MBWA), a breakthrough IP-centric wireless architecture designed to affordably extend the broadband internet experience to wherever people are based on the mobile WiMAX technology.   Sub-sector: Network ServicesInvestment Size: USD 12.4 millionJobs to be Created: 53Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: Lebanese – KuwaitiApproval Date: 2010Operation Date: 2013Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)Website: www.mada.jo For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Daher Foods - Cornflakes

From its humble beginnings in the Lebanese Bekaa Valley, Daher Foods has grown since 1992 to cater its set leading brands to most of the Middle East and North Africa. Today Daher Foods operates some of the largest and state-ofthe-art production facilities and direct distribution networks in the region, with a team of farmers, packers, processors and employees who pledge to consistently provide the highest quality products to consumers everywhere. The new project aims to produce breakfast cereals & corn flakes of various kinds and flavors, in addition to varieties of food products made of wheat, corn, rice and oat.   Sub-sector: Food & BeverageInvestment Size: USD 17.6 millionJobs Created: 259Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2005Operation Date: 2006Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ) & Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.daherfoods.com For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Ericsson Global Service Delivery Center

The Ericsson Global Service Delivery Center provides technology services to telecom providers. During the first stage of the project, 100 job opportunities in engineering and technology, as well as in management, were created. Today, the Center, which employs a total of 221 people, hopes to attract other companies providing similar services, thus contribute to boosting the competitiveness of Lebanon in the area of technology and telecommunications.   Sub-sector: Telecommunications ServicesInvestment Size: USD 2.2 millionJobs Created: 100Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: SwedishApproval Date: 2007Operation Date: ClosedType of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Secure Telephone and Banking Cards

It was established in 1973 as a security-printing house. It expanded to become an international provider of secure solutions to governments, telecom operators and financial institutions. Inkript is specialized in the development, manufacturing and sales of smart cards and utility cards for valueadded services to the banking, telecommunications and security sector.   Sub-sector: High-Tech ManufacturingInvestment Size: USD 21.1 millionJobs Created: 252Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2006Operation Date: 2006Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)Website: www.inkript.com For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Algorithm

Algorithm is a pharmaceutical manufacturer with product lines including non-sterile liquids, creams and ointments, suppositories, oral suspensions, in addition to other products under license.   Sub-sector: PharmaceuticalsInvestment Size: USD 12.3 millionJobs to be Created: 100Type of Investment: ExpansionNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2012Operation Date: -Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.algorithm-lb.com For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Jiyeh Resort, Blue Resort

Jiyeh Marina Resort occupies a prime site on the beachfront of the Jiyeh coast, mostly reputed for its crystal-clear blue sea. At only few minutes from both Beirut and Sidon, this new and unique touristic resort is ideally designed to provide endless facilities, luxury, and comfort. It features a private beach, a pool, a gym, a spa and a shopping arcade.   Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 21.1 millionJobs to be Created: 214Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2005Operation Date: 2014Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.jiyehmarina.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

ICT

The company was founded in the US in 2006 by 3 ambitious Lebanese engineers who were educated and worked in the US for many years. The company moved to Lebanon in 2008 under the name of NavLeb S.A.L. The Lebanese company became specialized in map development, GPS Navigation, GPS Tracking and Fleet Management Systems, Online Services and GIS Services. Through local partners, the company offers its Fleet Management services to customers in the Levant, GCC and Africa markets. Today, Navleb is recognized as one of the leading GPS tracking system companies in Lebanon.   Sub-sector: SoftwareInvestment Size: USD 367,287Jobs Created: 19Type of Investments: GreenfieldNationality of Investors: LebaneseApproval Date: 2008Operation Date: 2009Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)Website: www.navleb.com For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Front D'Or

This investment project, located in Beirut, will serve as the provider of exclusive post-production services. It will contribute to the development of a regional hub for all media, music production companies, and television directors.   Sub-sector: Production FacilitiesInvestment Size: USD 4 millionJobs to be Created: 25Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2011Operation Date: ClosedType of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Home Appliances Factory

Situated in the Northern Caza of Akkar, this project assembles and produces electric and household appliances.   Sub-sector: Electrical Machinery & AppliancesInvestment Size: USD 2.7 millionJobs Created: 20Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebanonApproval Date: 2005Operation Date: 2006Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)Website: www.uati-lb.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Staybridge Suites Hotel

The Staybridge Suites Hotel is a five-star modern hotel, located in the bustling Verdun district in Beirut. It holds 80 suites.    Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 45.9 millionJobs to be Created: 38Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2009Operation Date: 2013Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.ichotelsgroup.com/staybridge/hotels/us/en/beirut/beyvs/hoteldetail   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Diamond Segments and Tools Manufacturing Unit

A project developed by MG International Diamond Tools in 2002 in ‘Ain Saadeh, Mount Lebanon. The manufacturing unit, with a built-up area of 1,500 sqm requires a highly-qualified labor force of around 25 engineers and technicians, and the production process is fully automated. While an estimated 95% of the production is exported to nearly 55 countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland and the USA, the manufacturing unit still has a positive impact on the Lebanese market by providing high-quality products at lower cost. This project benefited from Investment Law 360 and completed the 10 years exemptions.   Sub-sector: High-Tech ManufacturingInvestment Size: USD 1.9 millionJob Created: 43Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2004Operation Date: 2004Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Broadband Wireless Internet

Cedarcom Group, established in 1997, is a group that includes Mobi, the leading Internet Service Providerm (ISP) in Lebanon and Broadband Wireless Data Operator licensed to deploy and operate wireless data networking and last-mile solutions throughout Lebanon. In 2006, Cedarcom Broadband intended to expand and establish a wireless network (“The Network”) with the aim of offering “wireless ADSL” services in Lebanon.   Sub-sector: Network ServicesInvestment Size: USD 4.3 millionJobs Created: 27Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2006Operation Date: 2006Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)Website: www.cedarcom.net   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Cedars Premium Food and Beverage

Former owner of the well-known ‘Pampa’, this new company is involved in the production and sales of fruit juices, carbonated fruit drinks and dairy products.   Sub-sector: BeverageInvestment Size: USD 14.4 millionJobs Created: 81Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2009Operation Date: 2009Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.cedarspremium.com For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Omran Industrial Food

    Sub-sector: Food ProductsInvestment Size: USD 4 millionJobs Created: 33Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2013Operation Date: 2014Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Arwan

Arwan Pharmaceutical Industries, are one of the most advanced biotech manufacturing facilities in the MENA region and Africa.They develop and manufacture critical care products, focusing on new generation anti-infectives, hematinics, anesthetics and analgesics, gastrointestinals, oncology, antiasthmatics, cardiovasculars, osteoporosis and wound management modalities.   Sub-sector: PharmaceuticalsInvestment Size: USD 35.4 millionJobs to be Created: 90Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: Lebanese – EmiratiApproval Date: 2011Operation Date: 2013Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.arwanlb.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Matelec

Founded in 1974, the company specializes in electrical distribution. It planned on expanding the company’s industrial facilities in Jbeil, Mount Lebanon by increasing the quantity of electrical distribution, power transformers, pre-fabricated package substations, medium voltage switchgears, and low voltage panels available for the local market.   Sub-sector: Electrical Machinery & AppliancesInvestment Size: USD 35.5 millionJobs to be Created: 576Type of Investment: ExpansionNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2011Operation Date: 2011Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.matelecgroup.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

The Landmark

The Landmark is a mixed use development project in downtown Beirut. Designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, it will include a luxury hotel with serviced apartments, luxury apartments, a shopping mall, cinemas, and entertainment halls for children.   Sub-sector: Leisure & Recreation ParksInvestment Size: USD 126 millionJobs Created: 336Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: KuwaitiApproval Date: 2005Operation Date: -Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

ICT

Implify, Inc is a Global IT Solutions and services firm. Since its inception, Implify, Inc has been providing best quality and cost-effective IT solutions to fortune 1000 companies, mid-range companies and upcoming companies via its onsite, offshore and in-house service models. Implify has developed, Neumann, a Data Platform as a Service, that helps organizations aggregate, visualize, analyze and get the behavior of their data.   Sub-sector: Software DevelopmentInvestment Size: USD 227,000Jobs to be Created: 20Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2017Operation Date: 2017Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ) For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

ICT

Logos is an IT company based in Beirut. The company provides several software solution products and services in the banking, university, money transfer, and utility sectors, as well as general purpose, financial and human resources solutions that can be used in any industry.   Sub-sector: Software Development Investment Size: USD 0.2 million Jobs Created: 32 Type of Investment: Brownfield Nationality of Investor: Lebanese Approval Date: 2017Operation Date: - Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ) Website: www.logos.com.lb   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Grand Hyatt Hotel

The Grand Hyatt is a five-star luxury hotel, located in downtown. It will offer 350 rooms and suites, as well as meeting rooms, a business center, restaurants, a swimming pool, a health club, leisure facilities, and retail shops.   Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 81.1 millionJobs to be Created: 440Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: Lebanese – Saudi ArabianApproval Date: 2005Operation Date: - Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Kfoury Metals

This project is a steel production plant. It consists in setting up a steel melt shop with a capacity of 125,000 tons per year to produce steel billets, a steel rolling mill to produce rebars and a maritime port to facilitate the import of raw material.   Sub-sector: Metal ProductsInvestment Size: USD 66.7 millionJobs to be Created: 10Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2007Operation Date: 2013Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

UTRIX

UTRIX produces, sells and exports veterinary drugs. The facility has a potentially important economic impact on animal farming in Lebanon by providing locally manufactured drugs of comparative quality to higher-priced imported products.   Sub-sector: PharmaceuticalsInvestment Size: USD 18.7 millionJobs to be Created: 27Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2007Operation Date: 2015Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)Website: www.utrix.de   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Benta Pharmaceutical and Medical Industry

Benta specializes in the manufacturing, representation and distribution of pharmaceutical products as well as medical devices. Benta supplies both the Lebanese and Middle Eastern markets.   Sub-sector: PharmaceuticalsInvestment Size: USD 30.5 millionJobs Created: 189Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2004Operation Date: 2007Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)Website: www.bpi.com.lb For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Kiln Upgrade, New Cement Mill and Silos

Cimenterie Nationale was founded in 1953 by the Doumet and Asseily families, and is today one of the regional leading cement producers. In addition to being an industry leader on the Lebanese market, the company is also a prominent worldwide cement exporter, serving the Levant, Africa and occasionally Europe. The expansion project involved the upgrade of a kiln to almost double capacity while adding a crusherdryer plant, extending a clinker cooler, and replacing the exhaust system. Storage capacity was increased by 40,000 tons, and automatic bag loading machines were installed.   Sub-sector: ChemicalsInvestment Size: USD 127.5 millionJobs Created: 56Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2006Operation Date: 2009Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)Website: www.cimnat.com.lb For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Mandarin Oriental

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group will manage a newluxury hotel and branded residences currently underdevelopment in Beirut. The overall development comprises two adjacent buildings located in Beirut’s Central District at the heart of Lebanon’s capital. Mandarin Oriental will be situated in the south tower, with 280 well-appointed rooms and suites and 25 serviced apartments. All will be designed in a contemporary style, with exacting attention to detail that is reflective of the Group’s oriental heritage. The north tower will house 103 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, that will provide the most luxurious and desirable living in central Beirut.   Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 208 millionJobs to be Created: 250Type of Investment: Joint VentureNationality of Investor: Lebanese – Saudi ArabianApproval Date: 2012Operation Date: -Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Vendôme Hotel Expansion

In 1974 the hotel became the responsibility of La Société Des Grands Hotels Du Liban, who had to cease operations in 1983 due to Lebanon’s civil strife. A decade later, with the arrival of peace, several million dollars were invested in renovation and restoration, reviving this landmark legend to its former glory. In 1995 InterContinental Hotels and Resorts took on the management, and reopened its doors in November 1996. Le Vendôme today has 73 rooms and suites equipped with the latest technology, gourmet restaurants and a 24-hour destination bar. Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 31.8 millionJobs to be Created: 70Type of Investment: ExpansionNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2011Operation Date: -Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.levendomebeirut.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

LEFICO

LEFICO is a Lebanese fiber company established in 2004 in the Bekaa Valley. It is the first PET Polyester Staple Fiber producer in the Middle East.   Sub-sector: TextilesInvestment Size: USD 4.4 millionJobs Created: 62Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebanonApproval Date: 2004Operation Date: 2004Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)Website: www.lefico.com For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Pharma M

Pharma M was established in 2006. Pharma M is specialized in the production of high quality pharmaceuticals classified as dietary supplements. The company produces supplements such as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It is the only company in Lebanon and the Middle-East, and boasting an R&D team that is developing the most innovative products on the market.   Sub-sector: PharmaceuticalsInvestment Size: USD 1.2 millionJobs to be Created: 17Type of Investments: GreenfieldNationality of Investors: LebaneseApproval Date: 2012Operation Date: 2012Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Hawa Chicken

Founded in 1957, Hawa Chicken is the leading producer of poultry products in Lebanon. In 2015 it expanded its production capacity by establishing a new slaughterhouse to further process poultry products in Anfeh, North Lebanon.The investment project consists of an expansion of the current factory by 61,000 sqm. The project includes a slaughterhouse, a factory for rendering residues, and another factory for manufacturing dry food for dogs. The slaughterhouse is expected to double production capacity to 120,000 chickens per day. Production of dry food for dogs will reach ten tons per day and they plan to export these products to Arab and international markets.   Sub Sector: Farm ProductsInvestment Size: USD 52,6 millionExpected Direct Job Creation: 309Type of Investment: ExpansionNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2016Operation Date: 2016Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.hawachickenlb.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Lebanese Roasting Group "Castania"

Founded in 1985, Castania specializes in the production of mixed roasted nuts and snacks. Castania is in the process of building a new full functional plant in Hsoun for the manufacturing of mixed nuts and kernels products to support its export sales.   Sub Sector: Food ProductsInvestment Size: USD 6 millionExpected Direct Job Creation: 75Type of Investment: ExpansionNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2015Operation Date: 2016Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Webite: www.castanianuts.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Pharmaline

A Lebanese pharmaceutical company, Pharmaline is a member of Malia Group. Focusing on producing wide ranging branded generics at its expansive factory just north of Beirut; Pharmaline is also the trusted licensee of multinational brands including Abbott, Aegis,GlaxoSmithKline, Merck Serono, Novartis, Phadisco, Pierre Fabre, Swisse, and Tripharma. Pharmaline has been awarded two ISO certificates: 9001 for quality management system and 14001 for environmental management system. It exports to countries throughout the Middle East, GCC, North Africa, Europe and Russia.   Sub-sector: PharmaceuticalsInvestment Size: USD 16.4 millionJobs Created: 159Type of Investment: ExpansionNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2012Operation Date: 2014Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.pharmaline.com.lb   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Summerland Kempinski Hotel and Resort

The project is the reconstruction of the former Summerland Beach Club.It is owned by the Societe Generale d’Enreprises Touristiques, a Saudi-Lebanese joint venture, and managed by Kempinski, Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group. It holds 153 rooms.   Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 155.5 millionJobs to be Created: 221Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: Lebanese – Saudi ArabianApproval Date: 2010Operation Date: 2015Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.kempinski.com/en/beirut/kempinski-summerland-hotel-resort   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Advanced Plastics Industry (API)

Established in 1994, Advanced Plastic Industries (API) is expanding its current production due to high market demand for pipelines. The expansion will take place in two phases; the first phase will involve renovating the current occupied location and buying new machinery for the existing products, and the second phase will consist of buying other needed machinery for new products.   Sub-sector: Rubbers & PlasticsInvestment Size: USD 21,3 millionJobs to be Created: 30Type of Investment: ExpansionNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2014Operation Date: 2013Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.api.com.lb   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Roasting and Food Processing Plant "AlRifai"

Established in 1948 as a small family business, AlRifai developed to become a leader in the roaster industry in Lebanon. The company has today over 60 points of sale in Lebanon as well as 6 stores and 160 point of sales across the GCC and the Levant region. Today the company is planning to enter new markets such as Europe, America and West Asia. For this reason, the company is in the final phase of launching its plant in Halat, Jbeil to increase its current yearly production capacity to meet the increasing demand for its products.    Sub Sector: Food ProductsInvestment Size: USD 4.5 millionExpected Direct Job Creation: 97Type of Investment: ExpansionNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2016Operation Date: 2016Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.alrifai.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

HTP

HTP will be offering interconnect test products, and will be producing high performance cables and connectors for data centers. The main customers are Cisco, Google, Juniper, Alcatel, and Intel. The project is a new concept in Lebanon and Middle East.   Sub-sector: ElectronicsInvestment Size: USD 1,43 millionJobs Created: 41Type of Investments: GreenfieldNationality of Investors: LebaneseApproval Date: 2016Operation Date: -Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Wilco PM

Wilco PM is one of the largest chicken producer in Lebanon, located in Chekka industrial zone, Batroun, North-Lebanon. The project consists of developing a new poultry slaughterhouse processing line and rendering plant.   Sub-sector: Food & Beverage Investment Size: USD 11.1 million Jobs Created: 58 Type of Investment: Brownfield Nationality of Investor: Lebanese Approval Date: 2017Operation Date: 2018 Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC) Website: www.wilcopm.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

3WF

The project consists in developing a new factory which produces a new welded wire mesh product called 3 WF (waved welded wire fabric). This new fence product is based on new state of the art technology, which opens the door for an unlimited number of mesh patterns eliminating the passive and boring squares of the traditional wire mesh.   Sub-sector: Metals, Machinery & EquipmentInvestment Size: USD 1 millionJobs Created: 41Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2006Operation Date: ClosedType of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Cedars for Textiles

The project aims at developing a new factory for producing different types of polyester used in all types of textile industries, clothing and curtains.   Sub-sector: TextilesInvestment Size: USD 1,015,000Jobs Created: 25Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: SyrianApproval Date: 2004Operation Date: ClosedType of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Daher Food International Company - Master Chips

Daher Food International Company is a leader in the food and beverage sector in Lebanon. Master Chips is the company’s project aiming at manufacturing potato chips, fried potatoes, and different varieties of consumer food products using corn as a main ingredient. In addition of producing roastery.   Sub-sector: Food and Beverage Investment Size: USD 16.7 million Jobs Created: 157 Type of Investment: Greenfield Nationality of Investor: Lebanese Approval Date: 2017Operation Date: 2017Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Global Snacks

Global Snacks is a production plant for “Bread Chips” and “Pretzel Snack” made from flour and all kinds of grains and maize grits toasted in various savory or sweet flavors in different shapes and sizes. In addition, the factory will produce cereal bars made from corn, rice and oat flakes mixed with fruits and chocolate in addition to biscuits and wafers in different sizes and shapes. Sub-sector: Food Investment Size: USD 10 million Jobs Created: 92 Type of Investment: Greenfield Nationality of Investor: Lebanese Approval Date: 2018 Operation Date: - Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Beirut Waterfront Development

The Beirut Waterfront Development (BWD) is a joint venture between Solidere and Stow Waterfront. The project, designed by Steven Holl in collaboration with Lebanese architect Nabil Gholam, comprises residential, commercial and recreational facilities around 12,000 sqm of fully-serviced, furnished units for sale. There will also be an 800-member yacht club and health & fitness center, in addition to 9,000 sqm. of commercial areas.   Sub-sector: Leisure & Recreation ParksInvestment Size: USD 80.9 millionJob to be Created: 381Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: BritishApproval Date: 2006Operation Date: 2010Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.zaitunaybay.com For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Le Gray Hotel

Le Gray Hotel is a luxurious and modern five-star hotel in the heart of Beirut. It offers 87 rooms and suites with a selection of restaurants.   Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 87.5 millionJobs Created: 200Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2005Operation Date: 2009Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.campbellgrayhotels.com/le-gray-beirut   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Hilton Beirut

This five-star hotel is to be located at the heart of downtown Beirut and is expected to employ more than 200 people in direct jobs and 400 people in indirect jobs. It started operations in 2017.   Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 46 millionJobs to be Created: 209Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: Lebanese – IraqiApproval Date: 2003Operation Date: 2018Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Riviera Biscuit

Riviera Biscuit Company is a new confectionary factory manufacturing various kinds of sweets snacks including Chocolate Wafers, biscuits and Cakes. The firm will be equipped with avant-garde machineries and unique packaging facilities.   Sub-sector: FoodInvestment Size: USD 4 millionJobs Created: 61Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebanonApproval Date: 2019Operation Date: 2019Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Metropolitan City Center

Overlooking the city of Beirut, the Habtoor Grand Hotel Convention Center and Spa (managed today by Hilton Hotels & Resorts) was inaugurated a few years back and included a shopping mall, large multi-purpose hall with full banqueting facility and a suites hotel holding 151 guest rooms.   Sub-sector: Hotels & ResortsInvestment Size: USD 143.4 millionJobs Created: 250Type of Investment: Foreign AffiliateNationality of Investor: EmiratiApproval Date: 2003Operation Date: 2005Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC) For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

KidzMondo

KidzMondo is a Lebanese concept designed to provide a complete solution for children, by offering a unique edutainment oriented indoor theme park created with the intention to amuse while simultaneously imparting knowledge. KidzMondo provides children with a relevant and tangible learning experience, appealing to the need to address and encourage interest. KidzMondo is a certified active member of the IAAPA (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions) since August 2011.   Sub-sector: Leisure & Recreation ParksInvestment Size: USD 18.1 millionJobs to be Created: 74Type of Investment: GreenfieldNationality of Investor: LebaneseApproval Date: 2012Operation Date: 2013Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.kidzmondo.com   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Glasspack

Glasspack is an industrial company based in Taanayel, Bekaa. The company is a glass container factory that produces glass bottles and jars.   Sub-sector: Other nonmetallic mineral products Investment Size: USD 30.4 million Jobs Created: 114 Type of Investment: Greenfield Nationality of Investor: Lebanese Approval Date: 2017Operation Date: - Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Dalal Steel Industries

Dalal Steel Industries is a manufacturer of metal building systems and pre-fabricated houses in Taanayel, Bekaa. The company’s expansion project consists of increasing its production capacity of steel structure insolated sandwich panels and prefabricated houses.   Sub-sector: Basic Metals & Metal Products Investment Size: USD 8.9 million Jobs Created: 42 Type of Investment: Brownfield Nationality of Investor: Lebanese Approval Date: 2017Operation Date: 2018 Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

The Forest

The Forest is a recreation park that lies entirely within the natural pine lands of Ain Saadeh. The park offers different recreational activities and instructional programs and is responsible for around 130,000 sqm of park land including: Outdoors swimming pool, two tennis court, health club ( that will include a spa and a gym), multiple restaurants areas, pubs and indoor and outdoor parking.   Sub-sector: Leisure & Recreation Parks Investment Size: USD 18 million Jobs Created: 164 Type of Investment: Greenfield Nationality of Investor: Lebanese Approval Date: 2018 Operation Date: - Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

General Paint Co

General Paint Co. -GPC- was established in 1959. It is one of the fastest growing producers of car paints and ancillaries for the refinish industry. Throughout the years, GPC has worked under a license agreement from multinationals such as Glidden Paints (U.S.A) and Valentine (France). Today, the company is operating on an independent basis and is selling its products in over 53 countries.   Sub-sector: ChemicalsInvestment Size: USD 8 millionJobs Created: 50Type of Investment: ExpansionNationality of Investor: LebanonApproval Date: 2018Operation Date: -Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)Website: www.generalpaint.biz   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Metropolitan Park "Habtoor Land"

Habtoor Land" is the largest theme park in Lebanon stretching over an area of 107,000 sqm. The project features a miniature park, a roller-coaster, a souk, a bird park, a food court, an amphitheater, a ballroom and many other attractions.   Sub-sector: Recreational Park Investment Size: USD 27,5 million Job to be Created: 222 Type of Investment: Foreign Affiliate Nationality of Investor: Emirati Approval Date: 2007 Operation Date: Closed Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Raouché Rotana Suites

Suite Hotel consisting of high quality 89 suites and 87 studios. Facilities include: meeting rooms, swimming pool, gymnasium, all day dining restaurant and café with a total built up area of 17,159 sqm   Sub-sector: Hotels & Resorts Investment Size: USD 28.8 million Job to be Created: 175 Type of Investment: Greenfield Nationality of Investor: Libyan Approval Date: 2007 Operation Date: Closed Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Propack

Propack will manufacture flexible plastic packaging and labels for agro-food products, detergents and sanitary products. The intended final product will range from simple plastic shopping bags to more complex composite packaging for milk jugs, detergents bottles, and frozen food.   Sub-sector: Rubber & Plastic Investment Size: USD 5.3 million Jobs Created: 25 Type of Investment: Greenfield Nationality of Investor: Lebanese Approval Date: 2018 Operation Date: - Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Investment Project by Zone (IPZ)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.

Sunset

Sunset hospitality project is designed to introduce a new perspective to the local F&B market and entertainment facilities by forming one identity. It offers a combination of distinctive F&B outlets, kids entertainment center, sports pots spread on a land of around 9,000 m2.   Sub-sector: Leisure & Recreational Park Investment Size: USD 37.2 million Jobs Created: 481 Type of Investment: Greenfield Nationality of Investor: Lebanese Approval Date: 2018 Operation Date: - Type of Incentive Scheme from IDAL: Package Deal Contract (PDC)   For more information, please download the Project Fiche.