The Dubai Export Development Corporation (EDC) met with a delegation from Ireland, to explore trade opportunities between the two countries.

The 10-member trade delegation was on a three-day visit to the country to explore trade partnerships with different government agencies including Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Healthcare City.

At EDC, a presentation to the delegation, focused on EDC’s facilities and services available to exporters and manufacturers. Discussions were held about Dubai’s main exporting products, export facilitation, as well as Dubai’s current trade partners and target markets in the future.

“EDC, as part of its mandate to promote exports from Dubai and the UAE, is keen to assist foreign delegations intending to source products from the UAE and attract more businesses to establish in Dubai. The direct trade between Ireland and Dubai exceed Dh800 million ($217.8 million) in 2009, with free zone trade nearly reaching Dh500 million,” said Saed Al Awadi, chief executive officer, EDC.

“With a number of Irish companies already in the country, it not surprising to see more companies wishing to expand their presence in Dubai and capitalise on its strategic location as a business hub in the region. Having been ranked 33 worldwide in Doing Business 2010 and with our world-class infrastructure facilities, Irish companies would be delighted and encouraged to set up operations here,” he added.

Members of the Irish delegation included top representatives from the Join Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise Ireland, Ovelle Pharmaceuticals, Biancamed Ltd, Rockall Technologies Ltd, and Sunday Times Ireland.

“Enterprise Ireland is a government agency that shares the same objective with EDC as we are responsible for the development and promotion of the indigenous business sector of Ireland. This meeting with EDC is important for us to understand the dynamics and opportunities in Dubai and the UAE so our members can look into strategic partnerships with local companies,” stated Brian O’Neill, department manager – Life Sciences, Enterprise Ireland.

“By setting up operations here, Irish companies can capitalise on Dubai as a business hub to also explore in neighbouring countries in the region,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service