Populism or real connectivity?

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), introduced at the G20 summit in September 2023, aims to link trade, energy, and data. Initially stalled by the October 7 attacks, IMEC has regained momentum, becoming a talking point in the current Israeli election campaign. Many Israeli parties view IMEC as an opportunity to enhance Israel's global image and economic standing, with one party, Yesh Atid, promising "hundreds of billions of dollars" and envisioning Israel as a regional hub.

• Despite the political buzz, the actual economic impact of IMEC on Israel is debated, with some researchers estimating a maximum of two to three billion shekels, far less than campaign promises.
• Significant challenges remain, including the corridor's reliance on Saudi-Israel normalization, unresolved multi-government financing structures, and the need for regional stability.
• The article argues that IMEC's feasibility and economic impact are questionable, noting that three years after its announcement, it has produced minimal tangible connectivity outcomes.
• Instead of focusing on trade routes, the article suggests Israel's true contribution to interregional connectivity lies in its technology, such as energy, cyber, AI, and smart mobility, where "hundreds of billions of dollars" is a more realistic figure for independent development.