The Finnish Business Group was established in the UAE six years ago by the then Finnish Ambassador, Risto Rekola, who held the position of chairman for several years. The name was changed to the Finnish Business Council (FBC) two years ago.
The FBC has played a prominent part in highlighting the role of Finnish businesses in the UAE. Pekka Rautimo, Chairman of the FBC, says, "We registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry two years ago. Then we were the 29th company to register with the DCCI, whereas today there are more than 40 members registered as business councils in the UAE.
"The business council system acts as a platform for the business communities. The DCCI appreciates the business council system since it actively organises occasions that are beneficial for the business sector and fosters interaction between the chambers of different countries. The business council also promotes various opportunities for the private sector. These are important avenues to share information and promote interaction among the councils as well."
The UAE is a substantial partner for Finland in terms of export.
"The UAE is the fourth-largest export hub on our list, just behind the US and China. Our export trade with the UAE is about 1.5 billion euros (about Dh6.929 billion) of which 60 to 70 per cent is re-export. Though we don't have a large percentage of imports from the UAE, this is gradually being encouraged," says Rautimo.
"The FBC currently has 25 members and the number is rising steadily. There are 600 to 700 Finnish residents in the UAE."
Business representatives
The FBC board comprises one member from the embassy, usually the ambassador, and members from the semi-government body called Finpro, besides other business representatives.
"Finland is known to have a strong shipbuilding sector. We also have several active global players who represent Finland's famous paper and wood industry. Other sectors of importance are those that involve heavy equipment including diesel motor and even elevator companies. We have reputed locomotive operations while Nokia is a famous global player in the telecommunications sector.
"We encourage the smaller media companies based in Dubai Media City which need our support. Our influence in the human resource market hasn't been fully developed but we hope to delve into this sector to improve the prospects for people here," says Rautimo.
"We share remarkable business relations with the UAE," says Rautimo. "During meetings the DCCI usually make a presentation which invariably lists the most non-corrupt countries in the world. Finland is always a part of this list. It's an honour to be regarded as an honest business partner in today's cutthroat business world."
