A delegation from Wales had its sights firmly set on securing some major deal at the recently concluded Big 5 construction trade fair in Dubai, with Welsh exports of goods to the UAE exceeding Dh6.7 billion ($1.8 billion) last year.

 

The official Welsh trade delegation comprised ten companies exhibiting and a further six companies on the mission, said a statement.

 

With The World Expo being held in Dubai in 2020, a plethora of new construction and infrastructure projects are planned with a special focus on sustainable development, which is expected to boost the local economy by $23 billion, it said.

 

The construction industry is a particular strength of Wales which is highlighted by the diversity of products and services exhibiting at the Welsh pavilion. 

 

Dafydd Hughes, head of the construction sector in the Welsh Government, who is leading the delegation, said: "We are extremely proud to be showcasing the unique expertise that Welsh companies have to offer in this sector and look forward to developing opportunities in the UAE and across the region, as the Big 5 attracts trade buyers not only from the Middle East but from across the world."

 

The exports from Wales to the Middle East have grown steadily and the construction and engineering sector is a key priority, he said.

 

Tony Hicks, the Welsh Government's regional manager based in the UAE, said: "Dubai and the UAE is now Wales' third largest export market globally and the largest regionally.

 

"We have developed a particularly strong relationship with the UAE and are committed to building on these excellent links to deliver greater opportunities for Welsh companies and their local partners, furthermore we intend to play our part in the UAE and UK Government's commitment in doubling bilateral trade by 2020."

 

With the 10 exhibitors on show at Big 5, in addition to industry leading water purification solutions, visitors will have the opportunity to meet a variety of engineering and manufacturing firms, specialising in building materials, construction technology and intellectual resources.

 

During the trade mission, the companies were given a market briefing by the Welsh Government's office in Dubai and attended a business reception organised by the Welsh Government and UKTI, said the statement.

 

In addition, the accompanying trade mission provided opportunities for companies looking at other sectors in the UAE that offer good export prospects, such as life sciences, education, ICT, aerospace and food and drink, it added. - TradeArabia News Service