Tejari, the leading online B2B platform for emerging markets, conducted an “Italy and Dubai Trade Seminar” in Milan on 20th June 2008 that emphasised the importance of trade between Milanese and Lombardian companies with the UAE and the region.
Through the launch of
www.linktolombardy.com, the seminar demonstrated how to fully utilise the advantages and services of its portal. It also gave Tejari the opportunity to discuss various trading methods by which Italian companies can access emerging markets’ buyers and sellers and conversely, for companies in the region to access high-end “Made in Italy” products.
The portal will initially target approximately (7,000) seven thousand members selected by the Milan Chamber of Commerce. These initial companies will consist of those that already trade internationally, and are now looking for a more efficient way to connect with new markets. As part of this partnership, Tejari aims to develop e-Readiness skills in the Milanese area by providing appropriate e-Commerce training to any businesses joining the portal regardless of their size.
Omar Hijazi, CEO of Tejari said: “The UAE and Italy are long-term economic allies that continue to maintain a healthy and mutually beneficial partnership. Bilateral trade has reached billions of Dirhams, with Italy becoming the third top country of origin of UAE imports. UAE development projects have been awarded to Italian companies and UAE tourism flow to Italy is also climbing steadily.”
“The UAE is one of top 30 trading countries in the world and serving as the gateway to the Middle East, Italy is in an excellent position to leverage our business strengths to collaboratively work on more prosperity for both countries,” he said.
Luca Gorlero, Director of New Ventures – Tejari Global and Imtiaz Ali, Tejari Global Sales and Consultant Director gave the enthused 125 attendees an overview of Tejari’s profile, buyer networks and an understanding of Tejari’s service offerings and benefits. The seminar also saw an introduction to Dubai and its importance as a trading hub by a representative of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce who provided delegates with information on the phenomenal growth of the city and discussed investment opportunities.
The seminar solidified both countries’ commitment to enhancing their participation in the global business community. Hijazi said: “We see an excellent match between Dubai and the Lombardian industries of fashion, construction materials, interior décor, furniture, financial services. Italy’s export volumes can see a significant boost in 2008 and 2009, and can realize new efficiencies and greater savings by identifying new sources of supply.”
Expanding Tejari’s services to Italy is extremely significant as it validates the growing strength and momentum of the company and it underlines the growing strategic value of emerging markets for G7 countries. Tejari has created a powerful platform that will easily connect Milanese and Lombardian businesses with the Middle Eastern region. It also marks another milestone for Tejari’s overall strategy and vision to become a truly global online marketplace connecting buyers and sellers across the world.