Chile unveils week-long display of its attractions in Dubai

Organised by the Chilean Trade commission (ProChile), with the support of the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED), its Foreign Investment Office (FIO) and the Export Development Corporation (EDC) the Chilean Week will showcase the key attractions of Chile as an investment destination and also highlight its export capabilities.

Trade seminars, business meetings, gastronomic delights and cultural activities will be part of the Chilean Week, which will be held across various venues in Dubai. The Week will also see Chile opening its embassy in Abu Dhabi, the first of its diplomatic missions in the GCC.

"The Chilean Week will bring to focus wide-ranging opportunities for engagement between Chile and the Gulf countries, particularly the UAE. The prevailing global economic climate is favourable for Chile and the UAE to build strategic partnerships for future growth and leadership," Carlos Salas, Trade Commissioner of Chile, told a press conference held today to announce the launch of the Chilean Week.

Chile is rated among the most dynamic economies in the world, having trade relations with all major blocs and regions in the world. The country also ranked first in Latin America in the most recent Global Competitiveness Index of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Currently the largest exporter of fresh fruits and other food products in the Southern Hemisphere, Chile has also developed world-class competencies in construction, engineering services, and architecture, with remarkable emphasis on cost efficiency and sustainability.

Trade between Chile and the UAE exceeded $113m in 2008, with Chilean exports accounting for $107.7m. Fresh fruits, cellulose, and race horses are the chief exports from Chile to the UAE.

Sector leaders from Chile will highlight the export capabilities of their goods and services at a series of seminars held at the Emirates Towers Hotel during the Chilean Week.

A 'Culinary Week' displaying the diversity and variety of Chilean cuisine will also be hosted at the Al Qasr Restaurant, Madinat Jumeirah, from the 19th to 22nd of October 2009. Bafochi, a Chilean group promoting indigenous culture and costumes will perform on all days of the Culinary Week.

"The Chilean Week is a great opportunity to meet and discuss the way forward for strengthening bilateral investments and co-operation between Dubai and Chile. The event will also enable us to assist Chilean entrepreneurs to set up business in Dubai and explore new growth opportunities, which complements DED's vision to strengthen Dubai's position as a regional investment and business hub," said Fahd Al Gargawi, CEO, Foreign Investment Office, DED.