In line with the principles of the UAE’s Projects of the 50, Breakbulk Middle East 2022 will create a dynamic economy in the UAE, with far-reaching effects in the Middle East
The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic revealed the vulnerabilities of several economies in the world. While other nations were dealing with the damage caused by the sudden health crisis, the UAE’s economic landscape showcased resilience. Though businesses did witness a temporary lull, the recovery was rapid owing to government incentives and initiatives. While some megaprojects were temporarily put on hold, the project pipeline is now flowing again. This has proved to be a boon for the project cargo and breakbulk sector that in the initial phase of the pandemic was hit drastically due to lockdowns and travel restrictions.
But the market is not without challenges. Container rates have hit new highs due to lingering pandemic-related delays and shortages. Steel prices reached unprecedented highs but are expected to drop toward the end of the year. Offsetting these challenges, is a relatively stable oil price that has fueled positive investment decisions.
Fostering new business opportunities
At a time like this, industry events like Breakbulk Middle East (BBME) play a pivotal role in uniting the industry to find long-term solutions for the ever-increasing challenges in the market. Over the years, the event has helped to transform the business landscape in the industry in its role as a catalyst for productive business relationships, including those between government ministries and the private sector.
Ben Blamire, Event Director of Breakbulk Middle East said, “Year after year, we have received the support of key government ministries and organizations in the UAE and the Middle East. The event’s ability to facilitate lucrative contracts that can drive the economy of the UAE that recorded a GDP of $357,045 million in 2020 is instrumental in helping us achieve this. This year as well, the event will be held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure that is working tirelessly to ensure that the country retains its leading position in several global indexes. In this regard, the UAE does indeed have some noteworthy global accomplishments. The country holds the 5th position as a key competitive maritime hub, the 12th position in Transport Connectivity Index and 13th rank in Liner Shipping Connectivity Index and Port Performance and Efficiency Index. These credentials speak volumes of the conducive business environment in the UAE, thus proving to be an ideal location for our in-person event to be held on 1 & 2 February, 2022. The event is time perfectly to coincide with Expo 2020 Dubai that will bring in professionals from around the world and boost growth opportunities.”
The event’s relevance has helped it gain the trust of major industry players such as DP World, UAE Region that is the host port and partners like Abu Dhabi Ports, Bahri Logistics, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, Al Faris Group, Mammoet, Volga-Dnepr Group and MICCO Logistics.
Aiding industry awareness
One of the standout features of the event is the knowledge exchange facilitated by the event. Every edition gives stimulates essential conversations in the industry. Government officials and experts engage in discussions related to the recovery of the sector, challenges and opportunities in the industry, supply chain disruptions, economic development and innovation and technology.
Leslie Meredith, Marketing Director of Breakbulk Events & Media said, “As the only dedicated event in the region for the project cargo and breakbulk sector, we have become a preferred destination for experts and newbies in the industry to become aware of operations in the industry and get acquainted with the newest trends in the market. As we continue to facilitate partnerships in the industry, we are always working toward the greater goal of economic prosperity for the nation and the region. Our key initiatives have been instrumental in helping us achieve this goal.”
Meredith added, “Breakbulk Middle East’s strategic initiatives tackle different pain points in the sector both short- and long-term. Our conference topics are selected with the assistance of our in-region Advisory Board and customer research to deliver what the industry needs now. Long-term, we have invested heavily in Breakbulk Education Day to bring new talent to the industry.”
Further, BBME has been a staunch supporter of achieving gender equity in the industry. The highly successful Women in Breakbulk will yet again continue to encourage the inclusion of women in the industry and support their career advancement.”
Breakbulk Middle East will take place 01-02 February 2022 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Companies wishing to exhibit at the event should register their interest at middleeast.breakbulk.com/Book-a-Stand.
