Dubai Export Development Corporation (EDC) and Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (Jafza) have signed a MoU confirming their joint commitment to contribute to Dubai’s economic development by fostering its external trade potential.

EDC predicts a 10 per cent increase in export performance of Jafza-based companies in terms of exports value, market reach and enhanced operational efficiency post the rolling out of this agreement.

The relationship will allow EDC, in close co-ordination with Jafza management, to efficiently implement its service offerings to Jafza-based exporters, a government official said.

EDC will further ensure that companies from Jafza (a member of Economic Zones World), are well positioned to maximising their business potential.

It will also have access to relevant trade information regarding Free Zone companies which will assist in the development of subcontractor relationships in the emirate.

Salma Hareb, CEO, Economic Zones World, said Jafza was keen on creating strategic partnerships with various corporations and authorities with the aim of developing and facilitating the business of companies based in the Free Zone.

'The signing of this MoU with EDC underlines our commitment to support the export growth thereby enhancing the development of the national economy,' she noted.

“Jafza is home to a multitude of leading export-focused companies. The MoU will create more opportunities for these businesses to expand into newer regions in addition to reinforcing their status in the countries they operate in,” Hareb added.

By sharing relevant information and ideas through close customer interaction, the two parties aim to further simplify export procedures. The partnership will continue to enhance Jafza’s position as an ideal re-export base.

“This MoU reaffirms the commitment of both EDC and Jafza to the economic development of Dubai,” said Saed Al Awadi, EDC chief executive officer.

“EDC provides a one-stop-shop for information, assistance and training to businesses to enable them to enhance their exports. The agreement will also see both EDC and Jafza promoting each other’s services and further cementing ‘Made in Dubai’ as a stamp of quality,” he noted.

The EDC exporter assistance model helps exporters in three main areas. Export Preparation provides potential and new exporters with information to aid them in preliminary processes.

Export Facilitation assists existing exporters to increase export volumes and broaden markets and International Assistance provides support to exporters operating in international markets.-TradeArabia News Service