Bangladeshi exports to the UAE have increased 83.72 percent over the last 12 months, aided in part by the first-time participation in Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), reported the Gulf Daily News on Tuesday.
“Though the levels are still low, they are showing solid growth,” said Bangladesh's commercial counselor in Dubai.
Eighteen Bangladeshi manufacturers and exporters took part in this year's DSF, the largest promotion of Bangladeshi products in the Middle East.
Shajahan Siddiqui, Bangladeshi commercial counselor in the UAE, said, "From a mere $11.57 million in exports in 1996-97, we have crossed $71 million in four years. It is a major achievement for us."
Bangladesh imports crude oil from the UAE, and the trade balance is heavily tilted towards the emirates.
"We are working to increase exports to the UAE further to bring about a balance in trade between the two countries."
Bangladesh exports mainly textiles, garments, silk fabrics, jute and jute goods, leather and leather items, vegetables, fish, processed food and tobacco.
In the last financial year, $71.78 million worth of commodities were shipped to the UAE, against a target of $42.06 million. The export figure for 1999-2000 was $38.81 million, said the paper.
There are 250,000 Bangladeshi workers in the UAE - Albawaba.com
© 2001 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
