The Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) recently welcomed Dubai-based Swedish and Japanese ambassadors. The visits were aimed at sharing of experiences and to enhance bilateral economic ties.

Magnus Scholdtz, Swedish Ambassador to UAE met with Ibrahim Mohamed Al Janahi, deputy CEO and chief commercial officer of Jafza. He was accompanied by Counselor Johan Murray.

The Ambassador last paid a visit to the free zone two months ago for the inauguration of ESAB’s new LEED Platinum-certified environmentally friendly building facility. The Swedish manufacturer and supplier of welding and cutting equipment is one of the first companies to establish a LEED Platinum building in Jafza.

According to Dubai World’s Statistics Department, the overall trade between the Dubai and Sweden from January to September was valued at Dh1.19 billion ($324 million).

“Products and services associated with Sweden are well regarded globally and we welcome the expertise of Swedish companies in the free zone and the country,” Al Janahi said.

“Jafza’s highly competitive packages, rapid growth, liberal investment climate and geographical location have proved to be of great value for Swedish companies with investment plans in the region. Jafza alone is home to over 20 Swedish companies and we hope to increase this number in the years to come," he added.

On a separate visit, Takashi Ashiki, the recently appointed Japanese Consul General of UAE visited the Jebel Ali Free Zone and also met Al Janahi.

The Consul General's visit came close on the heels of the recent Japanese Business Council meeting that was held in Jafza.

The free zone is home to over 117 Japanese companies.

UAE remains Japan's top export market in the Gulf. The overall trade between Dubai and Japan from January to September this year was valued at Dh12.76 billion, according to Dubai World’s Statistics Department.

Ibrahim Mohamed Al Janahi briefed the new Consul General on Jafza’s special industry practices and unique culture and its continuing role as an important contributor to the local economy. He also referred to the importance of ongoing cooperation between the countries to increase the level of global investments.

The diplomats were given a presentation of the latest world-class infrastructure facilities and new developments in the free zone. – TradeArabia News Service