Dubai to create new Export Development Centre: with trade accounting for about 17% of its gross domestic product, Dubai plans to work with ITC to set up an Export Development Centre to ensure the smooth development of its growing export sector.

Fast-growing Dubai is a centre for trade in the region. It has been chosen by trade promotion organizations from around the globe to host their next World Conference in 2006.

"With increasing focus on international trade, we need to streamline our export mechanisms further so that exporters can maximize their advantage from the unique position occupied by Dubai in the region," said Khalid Al Kassim, Deputy Director-General for Planning and Development of Dubai's Department of Economic Development (DED).

ITC provides a guiding hand

In May, the DED and ITC signed an agreement to develop detailed proposals relating to the establishment of an Export Development Centre. They will decide upon the Centre's vision and mission, and its main functions and services. In July, ITC provided the DED with a report outlining a framework for the objectives, functions, institutional structure, work plan and preliminary budget of the Centre.

"The Export Development Centre will be a unique trade promotion organization and will help Dubai-based exporters to identify and target the best export opportunities," Mr Al Kassim commented.

According to Mr Al Kassim, the Centre will help create a strong export sector by strengthening Dubai's existing trade relations with external...