The steel and metal industries in Jafza, Dubai have seen an increase in the past year, registering a growth of 14% during 2010 when compared against 2009. The figures are being put down to an increased level of trade in iron, steel, cement and plastering materials, with the metals in particular helping to lead to an increase.

The figures were announced at the 7th Strategic Customer Forum held specifically for Free Zone customers in the Steel, Metal and Building Material Sectors and are being touted as an encouraging development for the metal sector within the country.

Ebrahim Aljanahi, Jafza Deputy CEO and Chief Commercial Officer of EZW UAE commented “The recent wave of GCC-wide infrastructure projects that have been announced by Governments in the region are expected to drive construction industry recovery.”

He added “With its strategic proximity to the port and its unmatched facilities, Jafza is uniquely positioned to cater to the building materials industry and facilitate its growth. The industry was affected by the slump in 2008 but 2009 and 2010 saw an upturn and we are sure this momentum can be maintained.

This Strategic Forum is a platform for us to exchange ideas with the industry’s movers and shakers and create genuine dialogue on how we can work together to sustain growth.”