WIREDGOV

Bi-lateral trade and investment links were on the agenda as First Minister Carwyn Jones met the United Arab Emirates’ Ambassador to the UK yesterday (Thurs 20th Oct).

His Excellency Abdulrahman Ghanem Almutaiwee met Mr Jones in Cardiff to discuss strengthening economic links.

The UAE continues to be the top market for Welsh exports in the Middle East and North Africa region, accounting for £517 million in 2010.

Welsh lamb exports to the UAE are growing and Welsh providers Welsh Country Foods and Randall Parker have been certified as Halal providers by the Halal Food Authority.

The Welsh Government has an office in Dubai that covers the Middle East and North Africa region. It has helped more than 600 companies from Wales to develop business in region, the majority of which are in the UAE.

The First Minister said,

“The United Arab Emirates are an important market for Wales and Welsh goods and our exports to the region continue to grow. Our exports to the region including the UAE now stood at £517 million in 2010, almost eight times the 2000 figure of £67 million.

“I am pleased to welcome His Excellency to Wales so we can build on this relationship. Welsh lamb in particular is experiencing some success in the UAE and I was involved in the talks to lift a previous export ban, visiting the country during my time as Environment Minister.

“There are a growing number of well known companies from Wales that have established offices in the UAE, including Hyder Consulting, Hawker Siddley Switchgear, OrangeBox, Nuaire, Newmor. Many smaller SME’s also have a presence.

“Cardiff University has a presence in the UAE whilst many Emirati students study here. We want to build on these links and work closely with the UAE to make the most of the opportunities available.”

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