Major manufacturers, dealers, suppliers and end users from the region's road transport sector have joined forces to support the launch of the new Commercial Vehicles Middle East Business Group.

Located in Dubai but aimed at having a broad regional influence, the group will work towards reinforcing new optimism that an industry hit hard by the financial crisis in 2008 is now well on the road to recovery.

The group was launched when more than 100 representatives of leading industry players convened at the Emirates Aviation Academy to network and discuss key issues facing the commercial vehicles industry in the Middle East.

They included representatives of Michelin, Al Tayer Motors, Al Futtaim Motors, DULSCO, Emirates Group, ETA Ascon and many more who listened to keynote presentations and open panel discussions.

The meeting then wrapped up with a networking reception.

Supported by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), the group has been launched by Streamline Marketing Group, organisers of the industry's annual specialist trade exhibition and conference, Commercial Vehicles Middle East, which will be held in Dubai from March 11 to 13.

'One of the main objectives of the CILT is to build bridges between regulatory authorities and the private sector, as well as improve networking and knowledge capabilities of all professionals within this industry' said CILT Middle East regional director Alex Borg.

'The Commercial Vehicles Middle East Business Group is integral in helping us achieve these objectives.

'We are already seeing common themes that are top of mind for most operators, especially in the UAE,' he added.

One of the resounding themes of the inaugural meeting was the need for the UAE government to establish standardised regulations at a federal level, to ensure consistency and transparency for all freight transport and logistics operators.-TradeArabia News Service