Fourteen Maltese companies have taken part in the Big 5 trade fair, the largest construction fair in the Middle East, which was held in Dubai between November 20-24.

More than 1,650 exhibitors represented more than 2,100 companies, including 28 national pavilions.

The Maltese participants exhibited a wide range of building materials and related products including wooden doors, contract furniture, demountable partitioning, wall panels and glass works, whirlpool baths, stained glass, low voltage cables, paint brushes, aluminium works and hotel furnishings.

Dennis Vella, head of trade promotion at Malta Enterprise, expressed satisfaction that they were able to do business with companies based in the United Arab Emirates and other countries.

"Through the participation in the trade fair, the Maltese companies have made over 1,000 contacts and five of the companies have managed to clinch export deals. The other participants are currently also following up sales leads that could potentially lead to concrete business."

Malta intends to participate in the Hotel Show, Gulf Education and Training Exhibition and the Big 5 Show in 2005, in addition to the organisation of around three business missions to Dubai and other Gulf markets, Mr Vella added.

With regards to exports to the Gulf region, these have increased by over 30 per cent in 2003 compared to 2001, while exports to the UAE have more than doubled over a five-year period. The main range of products exported from Malta to the Gulf region includes building materials, industrial products, foodstuffs and household goods.

Further information on "Doing Business with Dubai" and the 2005 events in the Gulf region can be obtained from the Trade Promotion Department of Malta Enterprise by calling 2542 0000 or on the net.

www.maltaenterprise.com

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