EDC attends Arabplast 2009

It is the first time that EDC has participated in the event, which in 2007 attracted around 15,000 exhibitors and visitors from across the world involved in the plastics and rubber industry. The EDC stand will increase awareness both of Dubai's plastics industry and of EDC's range of services available to Dubai based businesses interested in furthering their export horizons.

Engineer Saed Al Awadi, Chief Executive Officer, EDC, explained to H.E. Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, the corporation's role in developing the export sector of Dubai during her visit to the EDC stand at the exhibition.

He said:

"As the Dubai government body charged with promoting exports from the Emirate, EDC is committed to nurturing this industry to not only increase our ability to meet growing regional demand for plastic products but also to assist our local industry to further their markets both regionally and internationally."

"A recent study completed by EDC estimated the annual production of plastic in Dubai to be Dhs1.3bn and we are experiencing industry growth in regards to export quantities of around 13% per annum," he added.

Exports of plastics produced in Dubai in 2007 reached a value of around Dhs1bn and export quantities are increasing at an average rate of 13% per annum. Re-exports from the Emirate are also strong, representing a total of Dhs1.3bn in 2007 with an average annual growth rate of 10%.

"There is significant opportunity for Dubai's plastics manufacturers to continue to grow their international sales as a result of increased global recognition of our manufacturing capabilities. EDC is helping to facilitate this growth through our participation in Arabplast 2009 both by showcasing Dubai's capabilities to the world and by meeting with the Dubai industry," Engr. Al Awadi added.

EDC released a comprehensive sector report on the Dubai plastic industry capabilities which include a profile of products produced, production capacity, subcontracting ability and company contacts. The directory aims to facilitate business matchmaking and development opportunities for the Dubai plastics industry.