Automechanika Gulf grows in line with re-exports at 40%

New information released recently by Dubai Ports confirmed that growth in re-exports of automotive parts and accessories has increased by over 40% in 2005. No wonder therefore that the Middle East’s leading trade fair dedicated to the auto aftermarket sector has grown in line with this statistic (30%), with more and more suppliers keen to access the region’s flourishing markets.

Automechanika Gulf, part of the worldwide group of auto-aftermarket trade fairs organised by Messe Frankfurt, is set for the Dubai International Exhibition Centre between 28 – 30 May. According to Michael Dehn, Exhibition Manager, “these statistics underline the fact that Dubai is a regional hub for the entire industry and that re-exports remain an important consideration for suppliers attending the show.”

This year the event is the largest yet and will present at least 550 exhibitors, up from over 450 in 2005, attending from more than 40 countries, all keen to identify both domestic and regional business opportunities. The organisers say that more than 1000 product categories will be on show, covering everything from spare parts and equipment for body shop outlets to sophisticated technology for the upscale garage operator.

Estimating the value of these market opportunities has always represented a challenge, but consolidated figures issued by authorities in Abu Dhabi and Dubai consistently reflects two key facts. Firstly that vehicle and automotive  re-exports now represents one of the country’s top three re-export sectors, amounting to a massive Dh6.2 Billion in 2004 alone. Second, that re-export growth of 50% plus for vehicles sales supports an ongoing and highly lucrative auto aftermarket industry.

Whilst re-exports from the UAE provides the aftermarket supplier with a unique business opportunity, shrewd suppliers will also be assured that regional growth in the automotive sector provides for further optimism. Automotive sales in the GCC remain high, with 2005 figures predicted to be around seven percent higher than in 2004. While the exact numbers of cars sold in 2004 is difficult to judge, US-based Auto Strategies International reports that 690,270 units were shipped into the GCC last year.

“Automechanika Gulf provides a unique shop window to the auto aftermarket in the region,” says Dehn,  “but there’s more to it than just selling spare parts. We have worked with our global network of offices to promote the Middle East market and feel confident that Automechanika Gulf 2006 will be the very best show to date.”