Mathijs PETERS

Mathijs Peters is a seasoned professional based in Brussels, specializing in government relations and public affairs within the European context. Fluent in Dutch, English, German, and French, Peters has established himself as a key player in navigating the complex regulatory and political landscape of the European Union. His career trajectory includes significant experience in both legal and public affairs roles, with a particular focus on international business, environmental law, and strategic communications. As a member of DP World’s European Government Relations & Public Affairs team, Peters is instrumental in shaping the company’s policy engagement and advocacy strategies. His work involves close collaboration with colleagues across Europe, leveraging his extensive network to advance DP World interests and, by extension, those of its principal stakeholders. Peters’ approach is characterized by a blend of analytical rigor, diplomatic acumen, and a deep understanding of geopolitical dynamics, making him a valuable asset in the realm of corporate lobbying and international relations

DP World, a global logistics and port operator headquartered in Dubai, has substantial interests in Europe’s transport and trade infrastructure. As a key member of DP World’s European Government Relations & Public Affairs team, Mathijs Peters is at the forefront of lobbying efforts that serve both the commercial ambitions of DP World and the broader geopolitical interests of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The firm’s explicit objectives include securing favorable regulatory conditions for port operations, advocating for free trade agreements, and influencing EU policy on customs, digitalization, and sustainability in ways that benefit DP World’s expansive network.

Beneath these overt goals, Peters’ lobbying work also aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision to position itself as a global logistics and trade hub. By advancing DP World’s agenda, Peters indirectly promotes the UAE’s soft power within Europe, facilitating Emirati investments, fostering bilateral trade relations, and ensuring that EU regulatory frameworks remain conducive to UAE-linked enterprises. His efforts are not limited to commercial advocacy; they extend to shaping perceptions of the UAE as a reliable, innovative partner in Europe’s economic future.

Peters’ role involves orchestrating high-level dialogues between DP World executives, EU policymakers, and national governments. He leverages his legal background and public affairs expertise to craft compelling narratives about the benefits of DP World’s presence in Europe, emphasizing job creation, technological innovation, and sustainable development. At the same time, Peters is adept at navigating sensitive issues, such as competition with European port operators and compliance with evolving EU regulations on environmental and labor standards. His lobbying strategy is comprehensive, combining direct engagement with policymakers, coalition-building with industry associations, and targeted public communications to shape the policy environment in favor of DP World and, by extension, the UAE’s economic interests

Mathijs Peters has played a pivotal role in orchestrating and participating in a series of high-impact lobbying activities designed to promote DP World’s—and by extension, the UAE’s—interests within the European Union. Recently, Peters coordinated the first official in-person meeting of DP World’s European Government Relations & Public Affairs team in Rotterdam, a strategic port city that is central to DP World’s operations in Europe. This event brought together key stakeholders from DP World, representatives from the Port of Rotterdam, and influential figures from the European public affairs community, including colleagues from APCO European Public Affairs.

During this multi-day gathering, Peters facilitated discussions on geopolitics, regulatory trends, and business strategy, ensuring that DP World’s policy positions were clearly articulated and aligned with broader EU objectives. The meetings provided a platform for DP World to showcase its contributions to European trade, infrastructure, and sustainability, reinforcing its image as a critical partner in the region’s economic development. Peters’ ability to convene diverse actors and foster constructive dialogue has been instrumental in building alliances and securing support for DP World’s policy agenda.

In addition to organizing internal strategy sessions, Peters regularly engages with EU policymakers, national government officials, and industry associations. He attends high-level meetings and public forums where he advocates for regulatory reforms that facilitate seamless trade, digital transformation of customs processes, and investment in green logistics. These interactions are often followed by targeted communications campaigns, leveraging Peters’ network to amplify DP World’s messages and influence public opinion.

The outcomes of Peters’ lobbying efforts are evident in the growing recognition of DP World as a leading player in Europe’s logistics sector and the increasing alignment of EU policies with the company’s interests. For instance, recent regulatory developments in digital customs and port sustainability reflect themes that Peters and his team have consistently championed in their engagements with policymakers. By maintaining a persistent presence in key policy discussions and leveraging strategic partnerships, Peters ensures that DP World—and by extension, the UAE—remains at the forefront of Europe’s evolving trade landscape

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mathijs-peters
Email (academic): [email protected]
Phone (academic): +31 71 527 2176

No direct phone number or website for lobbying activities is publicly available. For professional inquiries related to his role at DP World, contacting via LinkedIn is recommended.