Bahraini Parliament Receives Urgent Proposal to Cover SME Wages Amid Regional Tensions

Bahrain’s parliament has received an urgent proposal aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and safeguarding jobs as regional tensions continue to impact the economy.

The proposal was submitted by Hassan Bukhammas, chairman of Parliament’s foreign affairs, defence and national security committee, to Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam. It is expected to be discussed during an upcoming parliamentary session.

The initiative calls on the government to direct Tamkeen to introduce an exceptional support programme that would temporarily cover the full salaries of Bahraini employees working in SMEs. The measure is intended to remain in place until the economic effects of the ongoing conflict begin to ease.

Bukhammas said the proposal comes in response to the “direct and indirect economic repercussions” caused by the war and recent attacks affecting the kingdom. He warned that many SMEs are already facing mounting pressure due to supply chain disruptions, rising operational costs, and declining business activity.

He emphasised that SMEs are a cornerstone of Bahrain’s economy and play a critical role in employing national talent. Protecting them, he noted, is not only an economic priority but also a social necessity.

The proposal outlines several key objectives, including ensuring uninterrupted salary payments to Bahraini workers, easing financial burdens on employers, and maintaining overall economic stability by preventing business closures and layoffs.

“Ensuring salary stability will help maintain consumer spending and protect the economic cycle during this difficult period,” Bukhammas said, highlighting the broader impact of the initiative on household and market stability.

The proposal will now be reviewed by lawmakers as Bahrain continues to assess the economic fallout of ongoing regional developments.