Adnan Kassar
(1930-2025)

Most influential business figure for nearly 50 years

Adnan Kassar, one of the country’s most influential business figures, passed away at the age of 94. A banker, trades person, businessman, and longtime advocate of Arab economic integration, Kassar leaves behind a legacy that spanned more than seven decades of public and private service. He is also a former minister of Economy and Trade and long-time chairman of the Economic Associations.

Born in Beirut in 1930, Kassar earned a law degree from Saint Joseph University before embarking on a storied career that made him a pillar of Lebanon’s economic landscape.

He was a co-founder and major shareholder of Fransabank, one of Lebanon’s oldest banks, and held the presidency of the Beirut and Mount Lebanon Chamber of Commerce and Industry for nearly three decades, beginning in 1972. He also led the General Union of Arab Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture for many years.

In politics, Kassar served as Minister of Economy and Trade in the 2004 cabinet of Prime Minister Omar Karami. He had also held a ministerial role in Saad Hariri’s 2009 cabinet.

Known for his dedication to strengthening Lebanon’s ties with regional and global markets, Kassar participated in numerous international economic forums. His efforts earned him prestigious honors, including the French Legion of Honor, the Lebanese National Order of the Cedar, the French National Order of Merit, and the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. He also received the Crans Montana Forum Award in 2000.

From 1999 to 2000, he served as President of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) based in Paris — the first Arab to hold the position. In 2003, he joined the Board of Patrons of the Anglo-Arab Organization.

In addition to banking, Kassar was involved in diverse business ventures across sectors such as shipping, travel, and industry. He led the Kassar Group and held a stake in the Sibline cement production company.

Kassar is survived by his wife, Rida Nazem Miskaoui, and their daughter, Rola Kassar, wife of lawyer and former minister Walid Daouk.