Electronics and IT firms based in the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) generated trade worth Dh51 billion ($13.88 billion) in 2009, compared to Dh35 billion in 2005, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5 per cent.

These trade figures and the trade trends in the electronics and IT sector within the Free Zone were announced by Jafza officials and industry representatives at the recently held Strategic Customer Forum focused on the electronics industry.

“Jafza plays a key role in facilitating trade and business opportunities for more than 1,050 electronics companies based in the Free Zone,” said Ibrahim Mohamed Al Janahi, deputy CEO, Jafza and chief commercial officer.

“Since we are uniquely positioned to impact trade and investment for this sector, we continuously liaise with government officials to encourage easing trade policies and regulations that will benefit customers.”

“These forums help us better understand industry trends, requirements and operational concerns. The constructive dialogue and optimistic outlook from all representatives at the forum speaks well for continued growth opportunities,” he added.

The UAE’s consumer electronics market, defined as the addressable market for computing devices, mobile handsets and audiovisual and gaming products, is projected at $4 billion in 2015.

The growth, forecasted in a recent BMI report, will be driven by the popularity of new electronic devices such as LED and 3D TV sets, 3G mobile handsets, smart phones, feature-rich notebooks, MP3/MP4 players and Blu-ray players.

During the event Dubai Customs addressed individual issues and queries on customs regulations and policies, explaining that officials were in regular dialogue with government representatives to address federal rules and GCC customs policies.

The Strategic Customer Forum was the fifth in a series of industry events initiated by Jafza to encourage dialogue with key clients. – TradeArabia News Service