The electronics sector has grown into one of largest in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) with 1,154 companies from 87 countries serving local and regional markets, said a report.

The value of trade in the sector through these companies is over Dh113 billion ($30.76 billion), approximately 38 per cent of the total value of Jafza's trade of Dh294 billion ($80.04 billion), reported state news agency Wam.

The electronics companies there have employed more than 9,200 people and occupy 1.3 million sq m in the free zone as leased land, warehouses and offices, it said.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation and chairman of DP World, said that the growth of the electronics sector reflects the development of technology globally and rising consumer interest in the latest products.

He added that the government initiatives to achieve the vision of the UAE and Dubai 2021 to create a knowledge-based economy have also contributed to its rapid growth.