GCC Member States have come a long way in the field of trade cooperation. They have enhanced such cooperation for the benefit of the citizens, which would consequently improve investment and trade.

Under the GCC Common Market that was declared at the 28th Session of the Supreme Council in Doha, December 2007, Member States adopted the principle of equal treatment accorded to GCC citizens by 2003 in various fields, such as engagement in retail and wholesale trade, stock ownership, formation of joint ventures, encouragement of mutual investment and elimination of barriers to intra-GCC trade. In addition, Member States have endeavored to unify trade laws.

The Member States have also sought to improve the environment for foreign investments and ease access conditions to world markets through unifying standards of GCC products. The GCC has adopted a Unified Trade Policy vis-à-vis other countries, the World Trade Organization (WTO) and other international and regional organizations as a single economic entity with a view to promote trade and investment, expand markets, increase GCC exports, and their competitive capacity. In addition, Member States have also sought to improve the conditions of their exports to world markets, and promote and defend GCC products. The Unified Trade Policy also protects local markets and activates the role of the private sector in promoting GCC exports of goods and services.

Moreover, the GCC Unified Trade Policy also aims at adopting an internal unified trade policy, which facilitates the movement of GCC citizens, goods, services, and means of transportation. This policy takes into account environment preservation and consumer protection.