Dubai Chamber honours top exporter of the quarter

The recognition for Integra International/Banian FZCO came as part of the company's distinguished quantitative and qualitative export and re-export performance which was adjudged on the basis of the highest quantity and invoice value of nine certificates of origin with a total amount of Dhs21m issued by the Chamber.

Besides its export performance, the Company was chosen for its corporate social responsibility activities which included the marketing of lead-free Panasonic Plasma TVs since 2007, adhering to a strict internal paper-recycling programme and taking up various social issues as per the Dubai Chamber CSR guidelines.

Dr Belaid Rettab, Executive Director, Economic Research & Sustainable Business Development Sector, said:

"Dubai Chamber designed the SME Exporter of the Quarter initiative to highlight the exporting/re-exporting achievements of its members as well as to encourage their sustainable growth. In the first quarter of 2009 Integra International/Banian FZCO demonstrated exceptional quantitative and qualitative performance that reflects the characteristics of SMEs that Dubai Chamber wants to promote hence the company has been selected for the recognition."

He said that the Chamber evaluates the export information available from its certificate of origin database that also includes Free Zone companies and picks a winner for the highest export and re-export activities documented by the Chamber during the past quarter as the companies are not allowed to apply themselves for the recognition.

Dr Belaid further stressed that besides the export performance the qualifying company's corporate social responsibility initiatives, its administrative management planning and the implementation of its sustainable growth policies which support its ultimate success in the marketplace are all considered prior to deciding on the winning organisation.

Added Dr Belaid, "Dubai is established as the world's third largest re-export centre and the SME Exporter of the Quarter initiative underlines the contribution of SMEs to this notable accomplishment and serves Dubai Chamber's strategic objectives of supporting and creating a favourable business environment in the Emirate."

Explaining the concept, Dr Belaid said that All registered members in good standing and employing not more than 100 staff with an annual turnover of less than Dhs100m are eligible for the SME Exporter of the Quarter distinction. Candidates are selected for their quantitative re-exporting activities documented by the Chamber during the previous quarter as well as on qualitative company criteria.

Said Hassan Nia, CEO, Integra International/Banian FZCO, "I'm delighted to be recognized by Dubai Chamber as the SME Exporter of the Quarter. This award is even more valuable during the current economic situation witnessed around the world and in our region, and this is one the proudest moments in my 20 years of business experience in Dubai. We appreciate the patronage of Dubai Chamber, and as always are proud to be part of Dubai's economy."