About Us
About Bectrum
A Trusted Global Investment and Trading Group
Formerly, Swift Commercial Establishment, founded in 1978 by well-known transport logistics icon and author Issa Baluch as a sole proprietary establishment by orders of the late Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
In 1989, as part of business expansion, the company was converted into a limited liability partnership and changed its name to Bectrum Trade International. Since then, the name Bectrum became synonymous with high-quality commodities for traders in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
In 2008, the ownership was transferred to private investor Jaseem Hassan Haider, while original founder Issa Baluch stayed on Chairman. With changing market requirements, as well as to accommodate the growing network of the company, further restructuring took place.
In 2014, Bectrum Investment International LLC broadened business to accommodate investment activities in Agribusiness, Industry, Commercial, and Management. Meanwhile, Bectrum Trade International remains as a fully owned affiliate that continues to perform secondary activities, such as general trading and import/export.
For over 35 years, Bectrum name has been associated with trading high-quality commodities from Dubai, United Arab Emirates to African and Asian markets.
Our Co-Founder
Vision and Leadership Behind Bectrum
Issa Baluch
Co-Founder
Chair Professor Issa S. Baluch is a globally recognized leader in transportation, logistics, and international trade, known for pioneering the sea-air combined freight business in the UAE. He has played a key role in shaping Bectrum’s strategic direction while building a distinguished career across global logistics, infrastructure, and investment sectors. As the founder of Swift Freight International, he established one of the region’s leading logistics networks with a strong presence across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
With leadership roles across major global organizations and advisory positions with governments and institutions, Prof. Baluch has contributed extensively to the advancement of the logistics industry. He has served as President of FIATA, advisor to major UAE initiatives, and a board member across multiple international entities. A thought leader and author, he has written several influential books on transport logistics and continues to support innovation, education, and economic development, particularly across Africa.
Bectrum Team
Meet the Team Behind Our Operations
Jaseem has proven record of successfully delivering assignment that has supported the development and growth of key areas in Bectrum group.
Hesham has held various positions in Bectrum Group and brings a wealth of experience spanning over three decades in the company.
Jay plays key leadership roles in management reporting, corporate strategy, and executive communications at the corporate leadership level.
Rama is responsible for developing growth strategies, retaining relationships with existing customers and increasing client base of Bectrum Procurement Ltd.
Rowena works closely with the Executive Team on key financial, operational, and strategic areas of management and business planning functions.
Azees liaises with clients, offering professional advice, guidance, and PR services to both internal and external customers of the Bectrum Group.
Asha handles general accounts queries, ensures timely payment of bills, and maintains accurate records of financial transactions.
Joan Kafuko is responsible for planning, maintaining, and overseeing the IT infrastructure systems and technical operations of the Bectrum Group.
Our Initiatives
Driving Innovation and Growth Across Sectors
Agribusiness Initiatives
Agribusiness & Infrastructure Investment projects focused on
large-scale farming, land development, and sustainable agricultural production across emerging markets and regions.
Education
Books on Transport Logistics with case studies of various global projects, authored by Mr. Issa Baluch, showcasing insights into international logistics and industry development.