Dubai’s external trade in hardware and tools reached Dh4.8 billion in 2017, with imports standing at Dh3.4 billion, re-exports at Dh1.36 billion, and exports at Dh30 million, according to the latest figures released by Dubai Customs ahead of Hardware and Tools Middle East 2018, the region’s only trade fair dedicated solely to tools, hardware, materials and machinery.

The event will be organised at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 2 to 4, reported Emirates news agency Wam.

The figures revealed that China and the USA topped the list of Dubai’s partners in hardware and the tools trade in 2017, with trade worth Dh760 million each. Italy came in second with Dh467 million, Germany with Dh307 million, and India with Dh205 million.

Ahmed Abdul Salam Kazim, director of Strategy and Corporate Excellence, said: "Dubai’s external trade in hardware and tools helps the emirate in developing a number of important economic sectors which support the national economy. We, at Dubai Customs, provide best services and assistance to develop this type of trade.” – TradeArabia News Service