Small businesses are the life blood of our economies and the current recession could last far longer if their needs are ignored, a senior logistics executive has said.

Dick van den Broek Humphreij, chairman of the European Shippers’ Council, in a speech to launch the Global Shippers Forum and SITL Dubai, said: “Big can certainly be beautiful – as the city of Dubai is clearly testament to; but it is not just about the multinational corporations. The majority of people are employed by small companies.  Without them, trade and commerce – the lifeblood of society, its prosperity and future well-being would be threatened.”

The inaugural event was opened by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of the Emirates Group, who welcomed leading logistics and transport companies and shippers from across the globe.

Khalifa Al Zaffin, executive chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation, Dubai World Central, said: “Dubai has a strategic plan that has established goals and objectives that directly affect how trade is done in Dubai.  One of these goals is to establish Dubai as a global leader in transport and logistics by 2015. 

“Now more than ever, efficiency, productivity and cost savings in logistics and supply chains require collaboration between all the different parties in the chain.  It is important for everyone concerned to be aware of the emerging trends and opportunities,” he said.
The SITL Exhibition and the Global Shippers Conference will serve as a platform for exploring solutions to challenges facing global shipping industry.

SITL Dubai participants will benefit from unique services designed to maximize business opportunities such as the hosted buyer program, enabling buyers to establish contacts with vendors with a defined intention to close business deals. - TradeArabia News Service