Dubai Exports helps boost SMEs

Few months after the launch of the Export Assistance Program (EAP), various Dubai-based SMEs from the food and beverage industry are utilising its financial support to increase their export promotion activities with the objectives of entering new markets and growing exports.

The EAP is being offered by Dubai Exports, an agency of the Department of Economic Development, Government of Dubai.

Arab Beverages Est, a leading manufacturer of juices in pouches in the UAE, under the brand names of Cool-Sun and Sun-Blast, has availed the support provided by the EAP when it participated in different global trade shows during 2010.

"Last year has been successful for us as we have surpassed our export targets by 30 per cent. New markets were critical to support our growth. Through the support provided by the EAP, we were able to promote our products internationally and identify the right business partner in different markets," said Hywel Rodrigues, Export Manager, Arab Beverages Est.

The EAP was developed to provide financial support to SMEs based in Dubai, who are goods manufacturers or services providers, in order to increase their export focused marketing activities. Under the EAP, companies are encouraged to undertake market research, participate in trade exhibitions and conduct market and buyer visits with the objective of increasing national exports. One-third of pre-approved marketing expenses incurred are reimbursed to companies admitted to the EAP.

"As a service that is first of its kind in the GCC region, the EAP is very beneficial to our companies as they conduct marketing activities that will enhance their export capabilities. Following its successful launch, we have admitted many privately owned establishments from several sectors to the EAP, which demonstrates that SMEs based in Dubai are interested in seeking to export their goods and services of UAE origin. Arab Beverages Est. is a perfect example and we are very proud to support its export effort," said Engineer Saed Al Awadi, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Exports.

Meanwhile, Arab Beverages Est. is participating under EDC's umbrella at the Gulfood exhibition, the region's largest and most established annual food and hospitality event, taking place from 27th February to 2nd March 2011 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Arab Beverages Est. is showcasing its natural and organic products as well as its licensing and franchisee opportunities to over 55,000 buyers from around 152 countries visiting the exhibition.

During 2011, Arab Beverages Est. will be focusing on further growing its exports through participating in various international trade shows such as the Iran Food and Hospitality, Private Label Show in Amsterdam and Anuga in Germany. The company will also conduct market visits to various countries in Africa and Europe.

Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.