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UAE world’s 7th largest toy importing country

DUABI - International toy manufacturers are interested in seeking new markets where the industry is still strong and lucrative, like that of the UAE’s. UAE ranks 7th in the worldwide list of the top 10 toy importing countries, according to Epoc Messe Frankfurt, organisers of the Middle East Toy Fair.

Elisabeth Brehl, Managing Director of Epoc Messe Frankfurt said: “This time last year, UAE was the 8^th largest nation with toy import activities, but the latest market developments have boosted it to rank the 7^th amongst the top 10 toy importing countries in the world.” Dubai’s potential is larger than its size would indicate. It is the ideal venue in the Middle East to host the Toy Fair, with its ranking as a leading importer of toys and as a center for re-exports in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The Middle East Toy Fair is scheduled to take place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from March 23-25, 2009.

Ms. Brehl added: “From the period January 1, 2004 to date, the top 10 importing countries are the United States, United Kingdom, China, Iran, India, Hong Kong , UAE, Canada, Thailand, and Australia in 10^th place.” Within a span of one year the number of UAE toy importers has increased by almost 4000, to 18,017; importing nearly 100 categories of toys; or a total share of 2% in the import market of toys.

The positive trend a high population of children. Iran is placed at No. 4, importing 9% of toys in 388 categories, and a total of 15,849 importers.

The Middle East Toy Fair is the region’s biggest trade exhibition for toys, baby and infant products, stationery and back-to-school products, games, hobbies, gifts, apparel and licensing. The fair has developed into a yearly meeting point for the regional toy industry, where international manufacturers, regional distributors, educators and retailers can meet, discuss new business opportunities and see the latest products to hit the market.

A successful feature of the exhibition is the Middle East Toy Fair Awards program which nominates winners in eight different categories, honoring the best products presented at the fair. The winners are chosen by an independent jury taking into consideration local buying behaviors and appropriateness for the regional toy market.