Objectives of the trade cooperation among the GCC States are summed up in the elimination of tariff barriers over their products, exempt such products from customs, and accord them equal treatment, coordinate export and import policies, and create a collective barging method in this field .

The GCC States have established a Free Trade Area since 1983. As of January 1, 2003, that area is transformed into a Customs Union which aims, inter alia, at eliminating the tariff and non-tariff barriers in order to facilitate intra-GCC flow of goods, and create a collective bargainer power for the GCC States to liberate trade with other international economic blocs, in addition to coordinating export and import policies.

The GCC seeks to develop cooperation among its members through forming plans, programs, and projects to achieve trade strategy and enhance cooperation with the private sector through the GCC Chambers of Commerce and Industry Federation.