Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA) has announced the launch of a new license category for e-commerce enterprises, a move which will facilitate online business entrepreneurs’ partner with the free zone to tap into the rapidly growing e-commerce segment of the GCC and the region.

In a statement, Mahmood Khalil Al Hashemi, Afza general manager said the new licence category will allow entrepreneurs leverage the growth potential of e-commerce across B2C as well as B2B opportunities.

"By offering this new category of licence, Afza is moving with the times with e-commerce transactions surging in the UAE and the region driven by the 72.5 million internet users across Mena and the GCC," he stated.

Various reports suggest that B2C e-commerce sales alone will be in the range of $13-15 billion by 2015 in the GCC from the current range of $3-3.5 billion which is a lucrative opportunity to tap into,” he said.

Reportedly, the UAE has the highest number of online shoppers in the Middle East with over $2 billion worth of transactions, followed by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman.

“Prudent regulation and supportive policies of the government has helped investment in this segment surge in the UAE and AFZA’s move to offer the e-commerce license will further complement the country’s status as a robust destination for e-commerce ventures,” remarked Al Hashemi.

"It will also help the free zone attract a new category of investors adding to its 7,000 strong investor base," he stated.

“Apart from the licensing facility, online entrepreneurs will also benefit from the business-friendly practices of AFZA  and the various new initiatives we have taken to offer a seamless and cost-efficient platform for businesses,” said Nader Eldesouky, the deputy general manager, Afza.

“There is immense growth potential for e-commerce in the UAE and the GCC with some 42 per cent of the population is reportedly making online transactions,” he added.

Rishi Somaiya, the sales director of the Free Zone, said the institution of the new licence category was prompted by demands from existing as well as prospective investors and the need to offer a platform for the growing population of online entrepreneurs.

"It was inevitable that AFZA offered a cost-effective platform for investors who are keen on online businesses in line with our reputation of facilitating business in the UAE and supporting emerging investors," he added.-TradeArabia News Service