(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) Perry Fung, Regional Director, Middle East & Africa, Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), recently visited Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) to explore possibilities to further strengthen trade ties between Hong Kong and the UAE through the Free Zone.
HKTDC Regional Chief was received by Ibrahim Mohamed Al Janahi, Deputy CEO, Jafza, at the Free Zone. Al Janahi, welcoming the Trade Development Council Chief also emphasised on the closer cooperation between the two sides. He briefed visiting dignitary about Jafza facilities and the Free Zone's strategic status as the Middle East region's trade and logistics hub.
Perry Fung commenting on his visit said: "HKTDC is the international marketing arm for Hong Kong based traders, manufacturers and service providers. Jafza on the other hand is the gateway and trade and logistics hub for the Middle East, West Asia and African markets. A stronger trade ties between the two is very important. I am looking forward to that and seek Jafza's valued support."
Ibrahim Al Janahi said: "Hong Kong is one of our most important trade partners. Since Jafza and Hong Kong both are gateway to two most dynamic regions, there is a huge possibility for stronger commercial relations between the two sides. HKTDC's desire to further strengthen the bilateral relations echo's our outlook in this respect. We must explore possibilities for further strengthening our commercial ties."
The Hong Kong"UAE trade has seen a remarkable growth in the last four years growing from Dh15.8 billion in 2009 to Dh25.2 billion in 2011. In 2012 Hong Kong"UAE trade has reached Dh27.3 billion in the first 10 months. At this rate Hong Kong "UAE trade this year will cross Dh34 billion, an increase of more than 30 per cent from 2011.
"Looking at the growth prospects in the Middle East we see huge possibilities for Hong Kong in the region and Hong Kong-Jafza cooperation," Fung added.
Hong Kong's major exports to the UAE includes watches, jewellery, computers, machinery, toys, garments and accessories while its imports include perfumes, beauty products, boats, auto parts and fish.
