For a second consecutive year, Germany has proved its mettle when it comes to the latest lighting technology.
German exports of electrical and electronic products to the UAE reached a volume of approximately $1.85 billion (Dh6.79 billion), with strong growth rates in energy technology and lighting, according to the German Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers Association (ZVEI). Similarly, imports of electro-technical goods from the UAE to Germany increased by more than 30 per cent, totalling €90 million (Dh448.64 million).
As one of the world’s leading energy powerhouses, Germany traditionally has one of the strongest representations at Middle East Electricity (MEE) fair, and this year was no different. Exhibitors upped their game, showcasing the country’s expertise and product innovation in energy technology and lighting.
‘Energy Efficiency made in Germany’
Very appropriately, one of the linking themes at this year’s MEE event was ‘Energy Efficiency made in Germany,’ featuring 80-strong exhibitors from the energy efficient country. Germany put up an impressive show that earned it the much coveted title of ‘2010 Official Featured Country.’
Despite the continued international economic slowdown, the Middle East’s significance to companies involved in the global energy industry has continued to grow.
“Middle East Electricity is the hub for the electro-technical industry in the UAE and the leading event for this sector in the whole region. Products made in Germany stand for high quality and have a good reputation across the Middle East region,” said a spokesperson of ZVEI.
“We’re delighted to promote Germany as the Official Featured Country at MEE 2010, and see this as a great opportunity to develop the co-operation and mutual relations between the UAE and the Federal Republic of Germany," added the spokesperson.
In 2009, 94 per cent of exhibitors at MEE said that they had achieved their overall objectives, having reached a visitor audience with combined purchasing power in excess of $2.15 billion, according to Sarah Woodbridge, Group Director - Exhibitions, IIR Middle East – the organisers of MEE.
"In 2010 we’re projecting further expansion of the show," added Woodbridge.
“The Middle East energy sector is maintaining its seemingly recession-proof position, and industry experts around the world are forecasting continued steady growth in all areas, from power generation to water desalination,” she said.
General Electric expands in Middle East
Similarly, major energy industry players such as General Electric (GE) continue to benefit from trade with countries in the Middle East - the conglomerate's Energy division recently announced the signing of contracts with the Kingdom of Bahrain totaling over $500 million.
"The Middle East is a high-growth area, where they're developing their infrastructure," said Cynthia Mahoney White, GE Energy spokeswoman.
Supporting the energy industry throughout the Middle East and North Africa, the MEE exhibition which is rated by visitors and exhibitors as the leading energy event of its kind in the world, staged its 35th edition in Dubai, once again hosting the global leaders and innovators from the energy sector.
Although this year’s visitor numbers at MEE have not yet been released, 2009 show attracted 43,800 visitors from more than 102 countries, who came to Dubai to meet the 998 local, regional and international exhibitors, Woodbridge reveals.
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