SPECIAL REPORT Á APRIL 15, 2010
CONTENTS Strategic plans for the future Jafza – 25 years of creating history Engitec CX Technology reduces lead pollution Focusing on Iraq Leader in fire safety solutions ‘We strive hard to keep you moving!’ Leader in Seamless OCTG & pipes from China Respect for water, Our founding philosophy Titan in transformers Unity at its best Three decades of excellence Logistic and trade hub of the Gulf region Your trusted partner for engineering solutions!
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Editorial: Suchitra Steven Samuel Reporting: Jamila K. Qadir, Anil Kumar Vijayan Director Advertising: Haroon Qureshi Regional Advertising Manager: Philip Smith Design & Layout: Mohammad Ejaz Khan, Sidharthan Photos: Rahul Gajjar Dubai Head Office: P.O. Box 11243, Tel: +971 4 3383535, Fax: +971 4 3383345/46 E-mail: supplements@khaleejtimes.com Abu Dhabi: P.O. Box 3082, Tel: +971 2 6337666, Fax: +971 2 6351122, E-mail: ktimesad@eim.ae Bahrain: Veritas Property Investment Limited, Tel: +973 36721700, E-mail: premal@veritaspropertyinvestments.com Oman-Muscat: United Media Services SAOC, P.O. Box 3305, Ruwi, Postal Code 112, Tel: +968 24700896, Fax: +968 24706512, E-mail: alpana@umsoman.com India: Mediascope Publicitas, 51, Doli Chamber, Colaba, Mumbai 400005, Tel: +91 22 613 77400, Fax: +91 22 22875718, E-mail: representations@publicitas.com Pakistan: Millennium Media, Karachi, Tel: +92-21-5480795, Fax: +92-21-5870242, Email: tauqeermuhajir@gmail.com England: 47, Great Cumberland Place, London W1H 7 LH, Tel: +44 20 7723 5083, Fax: +44 20 7706 4157
A Publication of GALADARI PRINTING & PUBLISHING LLC
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Strategic plans for the future • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 and selecting desirable sites or locations for their ventures. We also help them to determine operational requirements and, additionally, keep them updated on various developments in their specialised business sector. b. Business Matching: This service helps companies leverage opportunities of joint ventures and other mutually beneficial partnerships in the local and international market. c. Dubai Trade: Through a single bilingual portal (DubaiTrade.ae), Jafza offers customers 24/7 secure access to all our services. The portal consolidates all the services of complementary organisations including DP World and Dubai Customs and gives customers the added convenience of a single logon. This creates the advantage of time, freeing up talent to work on core competencies. Further, to meet the needs and demand of our customers, Jafza has an ever-growing suite of infrastructure and facility offerings. Some of our prominent projects are listed above. (Q1) Are the existing banking facilities adequate, taking into consideration Jafza’s rapid expansion? More than 17 leading national banks are present within Jafza, which provide a wide variety of banking services to businesses and individuals functioning in the free zone.
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To what extent has the planned opening of the new airport attracted new companies? The opening of the Al Maktoum International Airport next to Jafza provides us with unsurpassed connectivity making the free zone even more attractive for large multinational companies to base their operations in. The development makes Jafza the only full-fledged special economic zone in the world, which is located between the two-mega logistics enablers namely Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport. The International Airport will reduce sea-air transfer time for Jebel Ali based companies to just 30 minutes from four hours at present. To make the logistics operations for Jafza based companies even smoother and more seamless Economic Zones World and Dubai Aviation City Corporation (DACC) joined hands last year to integrate Dubai’s sea, air and land transport infrastructure to form the Dubai Logistics Corridor. The proposed Logistics Corridor comprising Jebel Ali Port, Jafza, the upcoming Al Maktoum International Airport and Dubai Aviation City, Dubai Logistics City, is a major step forward in raising Dubai’s redistribution capabilities and its status as the Middle East region’s largest and the most efficient trading hub. The corridor, poised to be one of the largest multi-modal logistics platforms in the eastern hemisphere, on completion
will, in real terms, mean a quadrupling of Dubai’s logistics efficiency and its capability to move goods across the region. What measures has Jafza taken to counter the negative effects of global recession? We have focused on providing more and more value to our customers in terms of offering new innovative facilities and more and more efficient services. New products – please refer to Q.1 We have re-engineered our customer facility at the start of 2009. The facility which was designed post analysis of the customer experience features top-of-the line personalised services and seeks to provide customers and visitors with an unparalleled service experience. The facility includes an intelligent, custom-built queuing system which, over almost a year of operation has reduced the processing time of transactions by as much as 70 per cent. Additionally, Jafza offers alternative solutions to our customers to help tide over the challenging time — more commercial options, longer periods of time in which to start building and the value added products that are detailed above are just a few. Our agility and customer focus during the downturn has been the key reason that Jafza has grown in 2009 – in customer base and revenues — despite the recession.
MAC INTERNATIONAL
Focusing on Iraq JAFZ-based MAC International has been distributing General Motors vehicles and automotive spare parts in Iraq since 2003 Anil Kumar Vijayan MAC INTERNATIONAL was established in 2003 in Jebel Ali Free Zone with the objective of distributing General Motors vehicles and automotive spare parts in Iraq. Subsequent to its development, the company sold close to 50,000 vehicles in Iraq and holds a 25 per cent market share in the Iraqi automotive market, according to its General Manager, Gamal Fahim. MAC International is a subsidiary of its mother company, Mansour Automotive Company (MAC)- Egypt, which was granted distribution rights by General Motors and has been a successful dealer since 1974. In 2000, General Motors gave MAC exclusive distribution rights in Egypt and in 2002 it entered into a joint venture with the company. In 2003, under the joint venture General Motors gave the company distribution rights for Iraq. “That is why we formed the company in Jebel Ali Free Zone because this is outside the company’s operations in Egypt. The shareholders of MAC International are the Al Mansour family and General Motors,” Fahim said. Fahim also stated that they have been successfully selling and servicing General Motors products in Iraq since May 2003. MAC and MAC International have made their marks on both the Egyptian and Iraqi markets as outstanding automotive companies. Total sales in Egypt only dropped from 82,000 in 2008 to 76,000 vehicles in 2009, despite the economic recession. Meanwhile, Iraq has proven to have potential, with sales rising from 3,000 vehicles in 2008 to 12,600 units in 2009. Fahim also said: “Our location in Iraq employs over 160 individuals and facilities include; a service station in Baghdad, showrooms in Erbil and Sulaymania, and two in Kurdistan, which is an autonomous region. As a distributor, we have also been allowed to appoint dealers, of which we have two: one in Erbil and the other in
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Duhok (one of the governorates of Kurdistan). Our warehouse in Jebel Ali has been here for nearly eight years and is utilised as a distribution centre for the Iraqi market.” Future investments and developmental projects include the construction of a 5,000-square metre service station in Erbil (which will have 20 bays of the highest standards), a showroom in Baghdad within the coming three months, and the construction of other facilities such as an AC Delco centre. This will be the first centre of its kind in Iraq and will be accompanied by a full-fledged 3S (sales, service, and support) dealership facility in Erbil. Fahim proudly stated: “ Not only are we pioneers by being the first distributors to be appointed in Iraq, but we also take pride in being the largest distributor in the country. Our experience in the Iraqi market allows us to confidently state that we are in fact the number one automotive company in Iraq. Statistics of exports to Iraq, show that we have been able to capture nearly 35 per cent of the Iraqi market. In 2009, vehicles which were manufactured at the General Motors plant in South Korea and exported to Iraq represented 25 per cent market share as a whole. We are creating the infrastructure for servicing and supporting the products that we are selling in Iraq.” He also expects that the number of employees will increase to 250 by the end of the year due to new service centres and facilities being built. In the first few years after the war the vehicles sold in Iraq were used to strengthen the fleet of the Iraqi security forces and they bagged several contracts to supply such vehicles. Currently, however, MAC International sells mostly the Optra and Aveo models in Iraq. In Kurdistan the 4WD Tahoe has become the number one full-sized passenger car. Iraq, being a price-sensitive market, the competition is concentrated mostly among the Korean manufactured products. The demand is mostly for lowpriced small passenger cars, in which Korean products are the leaders and MAC International holds a 50 per cent market share. Optra and Aveo represents around 70 per cent of the small passenger cars market and so Optra and Aveo are the number one small passenger cars currently in Iraq. Fahim says that several years ago there was a huge demand for armoured vehicles from security agencies in Iraq and MAC
Gamal Fahim
International supplied several such vehicles to the security agencies and the government. The demand then was mostly for the Suburban and Tahoe. Now the company is concentrating more on the commercial side but they do supply armoured vehicles, whenever it is demanded. The armouring is prepared by other companies, because unlike in 2003 and 2004, armouring is not a major activity of the company. Nairooz, which marks the beginning of spring and is a big event in Kurdistan, is at the heart of a major promotional campaign currently taking place in the region. Raffle winners are given one kilogramme of gold and other giveaways include a gold coin with every new vehicle. Fahim further explained that the staff in Kurdistan is multiethnic, and their aim is to depend on the Iraqi labour force in the future. “The job of our expat staff is mainly to train the Iraqis and transfer technology to them”. In addition to the office in Jebel Ali Free Zone, there is a representative office in the Mankhool area of Dubai. The company has a 16-member team in Dubai which handles finance, distribution and the sales of spare parts. This year the company expects sales in Iraq to exceed 20,000, as the country slowly returns to normalcy. Fahim has over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry and has been managing the company for the past five years. He worked with General Motors, Egypt and for three years was in the thick of General Motors Middle East’s operations in Dubai. He has a sales background and a sound knowledge of the Iraqi, Egyptian and Lower Gulf markets due to his previous and current assignments. All of these dynamic aspects qualify him to take MAC International to greater heights.
LUCKY GROUP
Wealth of experience WITH more than three decades behind them, the Lucky Group is in the forefront of metal recycling. Iqbal Shaban, President of Lucky Group shares his outlook. When was your company launched in Jafza and prior to that where was it located? Lucky Group was established in 1973 as a small trading company in Dubai. Over the period of three decades, the Group has expanded its interests to include metal recycling. The opening of Jafza in 1985 provided Lucky an avenue to expand and lay the foundation for a modern recycling facility in 1988. Lucky Group operations are based on international industry standards with a regional presence at various global strategic locations while maintaining Dubai as the global headquarters. Two main enterprises operating in Jafza are Lucky Recycling and Lucky Alloys. Who are the owners of the company
and its key investors? Lucky Group is a family owned, independently operated and managed business entity founded by my eldest brother, Dilawar Shaban in 1973. My three brothers and I gradually joined the family business and we ďŹ ve brothers now comprise the Group’s Board of Directors. This body provides strategic direction and reviews the best use of capital investments for the Group. What is the core economic activity of the company? Lucky Group strategically operates in three areas of the recycling industry. International Trade: The group has expanded its clientele in over 40 countries worldwide, dealing in non-ferrous and ferrous scrap. Processing Yards: The procurement of non-ferrous and ferrous scrap material is handled from key strategic points, processed at our facilities, checked for quality and packaged for delivery to customers all over the world.
Iqbal Shaban Recycling operations: Our highly automated recycling process sources, sorts, inspects and processes various grades of non-ferrous and ferrous scrap that are of premium quality and exported internationally. Our specialty is invested in materials like aluminium, copper, brass, stainless steel and nickel alloys as well as ferrous scrap. We also supply various grades of primary and secondary alloy ingots. Our products are used internationally in the automotive, petrochemicals, telecommunications, construction, sanitary ware and transportation sectors.
KIMOHA
Two decades of growth As a name to reckon with in the field of Paper and Label Conversion and Flexo-printing Kimoha gives a large portion of the credit for its growth to JAFZ’s unparalleled facilities KIMOHA Entrepreneurs Ltd., an ISO 9001-2008 certified company, was registered as a JAFZ community member in February 1988. Commencing its operations in a very humble way, it has slowly but steadily grown into a force to be reckoned with in the field of Paper and Label Conversion and Flexo-printing. Moving premises on a need-based manner almost three times, within Jebel Ali Free Zone itself, today it is poised to move into, what its managing director terms, “Once in a life time dream building” encompassing two plants (for paper and label), warehouse and corporate office. This year Kimoha has found itself to be in a wonderful position; on one hand its
birthplace, JAFZ, is celebrating its 25 years of existence, and its older brother from Oman, Al Ansari, has turned 35. “To be in the midst of such experience and achievements is most enviable, and indeed we are proud of our two associations — one with JAFZ and the other as a member of Al Ansari Group,” a spokesman of Kimoha said. The virtues of JAFZ, an ideal free zone, are many. To top it all, in keeping with the dream of Late Shaikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former Ruler of Dubai, Jebel Ali has turned out to be arguably the most efficient port in the world — if the speed with which containers get cleared and delivered to member warehouses is any indication. Further JAFZ has kept upgrading its facilities and services steadily, adopting the best practices such as one-window clearances, super-efficient immigration desks within its jurisdiction, labour counselling for investors and workmen, On-line and ever modernising customs clearances and many more that make it difficult for investors to even search for better pastures. Given such infrastructure, one sees no
reason why any business unit should not grow; and Kimoha too is no exception. From being one of the pioneers (in Dubai) in manufacturing and marketing label / paper products, barcode printers, inkjet media products etc., it reaches out to virtually every industrial and services segment of the market in the region. Its product portfolio includes 1) fax, telex, cash/POS, ATM, and thermal rolls (with and without printing), 2) Q-Tickets, Nemo-Qs, 3) PPC & CAD products for engineering and reprographic market segments, 4) labels and tags in sheet, fanfold and roll forms with a wide range of materials, 5) custom-made labels with multi-colour label printing, valueadded services viz. providing holographic and security features on the labels suitable for various industrial packaging applications. 6) thermal baggage tags, boarding passes, security stickers and other aviation related printed items. Kimoha compliments JAFZ in its silver jubilee year, and prays to the Almighty for blessings for its onward march towards Golden Jubilee.
NAFFCO
Leader in fire safety solutions National Fire Fighting Manufacturing FZCO designs, manufactures and markets engineered fire safety solutions and also undertakes installation and after sales services
NATIONAL Fire Fighting Manufacturing FZCO (NAFFCO) designs, manufactures and markets engineered fire safety solutions including installation and undertakes after sales services with its highly trained and experienced technicians and engineers for fire-fighting products ranging from basic fire extinguishers to highly sophisticated fire engines. The company provides “total” fire protection solutions to the most prestigious developments around the world, including residential buildings, commercial complex, telecommunication centres, industrial installations, oil refineries and petrochemical plants and airport installations. Global network NAFFCO is present in over 78 countries worldwide with its headquarters located in the United Arab Emirates. A wide range of innovative fire-fighting equipment is manufactured, using the company’s state-of-theart technology, at the UAE facility. The company is renowned worldwide for providing superb quality and assuring timely performance of its products. With simple yet effective fire extinguishers of all sizes, custom-made fire cabinets, heavy-duty fire hoses, high-capacity powerful pumps, mobile fire fighting systems, including CAF systems and highly advanced fire engines, NAFFCO dedicates itself to the science of fire fighting. NAFFCO has diversified from the passive fire protection arena to emerge as a specialist in the field of automation and control for all types of fire alarms and security systems and even launched special independent divisions to manufacture HDPE pipes and fittings for underground fire water lines and fire rated door divisions.
Awards & accreditations NAFFCO’s ISO 9001 Quality Management System is certified by UL, LPCB and BV. NAFFCO endeavours to continually and effectively improve the quality of its products in accordance with the requirements of international standards viz BS EN, UL, NFPA, FM. NAFFCO’s various products have been tested against the specified standard requirements by BSI, LPCB, UL, FM, and SAI Global. In recognition of NAFFCO’s business growth, it was presented the prestigious “Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award of 2005” for excellence in exports. In 2006, it was recognised as a distinguished manufacturer of complete fire protection solutions. Furthermore, receiving the “Dubai Quality Appreciation Award of 2008” bears witness to our continuous focus towards the excellence of our business together with our corporate social responsibilities and the quality of services we provide. Market leadership NAFFCO is motivated by its slogan, “Think Fire, Think NAFFCO!” Right from its inception in 1991 it has been striving to be a global leader in providing comprehensive and reliable fire protection solutions to make the world a safer place to live in. NAFFCO has grown to become the largest fire-fighting equipment manufacturer in the Middle East and one of the top manufacturers worldwide with a state-of-the-art one million square feet high-tech manufacturing facility to cater to enhanced customer demand for its products in the Middle East and around the world.
NAFFCO has diversified from the passive fire protection arena to emerge as a specialist in the field of automation and control for all types of fire alarm and security systems and even launched special independent divisions to manufacture HDPE pipes and fittings for underground fire water lines and fire rated door division 17
‘We strive hard to keep you moving!’ JBC Express Freight LLC provides total transportation solutions and renders services to 1,500 clientele within various verticals JBC Express Freight LLC was established in 1992 with a clear vision to provide efficient and reliable freight forwarding service to its clientele. With 17 glorious years behind it JBC has emerged as a major logistics solutions provider in the Middle East. JBC Express Freight LLC’s management recently opened the company’s new stateof-the-art logistics centre at Jebel Ali Free Zone (South Zone) which has a total area of 100,000 square feet of which 30,000 square feet comprises a fully-covered warehouse and office premises. JAFZA, one of the fastest growing free zones in the world, is situated between Jebel Ali port, the world’s sixth largest sea port and the upcoming Al Maktoum International Airport, the world’s largest cargo airport connected by a six-lane highway. This is a dream come true for any logistics provider. Today JBC is fully equipped with a fleet of 90 commercial vehicles of different capacity and 200 dedicated professionals who work as a team, comprehending and providing logistic and transport solutions to more than 1,500 clientele. P.K. Ayyappan, Managing Director and Operations Director P.R. Pushparajan are at the helm of the company’s operations to enrich the staff with their experience of over 30 years in the field of freight forwarding. Logistics starts with comprehending customers’ requirements, which depends solely on the industry in which the customer operates. The JBC team understands customers’ demands and how timely and cost-effective service improves their demand and supply requirements which is a vital factor in the trade. JBC Express Freight LLC operations provide transportation solutions that are ISO 9001 2000 certified by TUV. The operations are characterised by a percolation of efficient teamwork and professionalism
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P.K. Ayyappan, Managing Director, JBC Express Freight LLC focusing on creating customer-centric service process. The success of the company can be attributed to the genuine desire of the team to surpass customer expectations with an unflinching dedication to provide cost-effective quality service, thereby translating the advantage of reduced lead time and minimising the customer’s inventory cost. JBC Express Freight LLC continues to strive further for excellence without pausing to rest upon past laurels and is constantly searching ways to consolidate its position as a serious transportation and logistics solution provider in the Middle East. The company’s highly skilled staff, who have experience and knowledge in documentation requirements, are approved customs brokers. Their timely services are utilised for proper documentation for inbound air / sea cargo clearance, distribution, reexport and hotshot full truckload service to clientele throughout GCC countries. JBC is also equipped with a special fleet of trailers and trucks, which are certified by Petroleum Development of Oman. These trucks also have chemical permits and are driven by PDO certified drivers controlled by Journey Managers to meet their standards. JBC’s Logistics process involves planning, implementing and controlling. Plan-
ning within JBC process involves the proper knowledge of the local geographical terrain, route distance, nature of products and clear information about the physical attributes of the cargo. These are the parameters on which the company’s staff conducts each journey. “Each delivery procedure adheres strictly to QHSE requirements and standards. Implementation of a logistics plan is a group process; where different personnel and agencies located in different geographical locations need to coordinate their activities. Contingency or Emergency Response Plans (ERP), as a standby is always in place in case of need. Precise instructions, quick communication and mutual understanding are the key ingredients of successful implementation of the company’s logistics plan. Controlling is the process of monitoring the flow of goods. The timely arrival of cargo at the destination is crucial. An effective logistics system is one that ensures timely and safe delivery of cargo at an economical cost. JBC’s system revolves around this objective and the benefit is shared with its customers by giving cost-effective rates and ensuring minimum transit time with maximum safety. JBC’s IT implementation and communication plays a vital role in the facilitation of coordination and control of the entire process so as to effectively relay vital information to customers and monitor every moment of the cargo in transit till the delivery is done. JBC’s trained and dedicated manpower handles cargo safely while in transit with a clear commitment and responsibility to deliver the cargo to their customer in time. JBC’s inherent, iterative process of incorporating the best practices in this industry has enabled it to obtain increased operational efficiency and optimum utilisation of its resources. JBC Express Freight LLC offers efficient logistics system/solution to its clientele empowering them to have an edge over their competitors with better control over their inventories coupled with reduced lead time cost-effectively. JBC’s commitment to its customer is clearly elucidated in the statement: ‘We strive hard to keep you moving!
LINK MIDDLE EAST LTD. DUBAI
Custom-built protection Link Middle East Co. is a leading security provider of the Gulf region, specialising in customised security solutions for its clients THE Middle East security market is growing at a tremendous pace. Nowadays, it is inevitable to safeguard any kind of property, be it industrial, commercial or residential. It goes without saying that safety has become the top priority for any business concern today. Link Middle East Co., an ISO 9001:2008 company, is one of the leading security providers in the Gulf, specialising in customised security solutions for clients. Link Middle East is involved in manufacturing and providing state-of-the-art
security solutions. The company is well equipped to offer comprehensive packages, which include designing, material selection and final installation at the site. It offers a wide range of solutions for all security problems on any terrain and under extreme climatic conditions. Quality is of paramount importance and LME ensures strict compliance with quality standards. Besides, excellence in terms of quality, products is tested and certified by independent laboratories in the UAE. Utmost importance is accorded to optimal design, versatility, durability and economy, backed by LME’s guarantee for the work undertaken. The company’s technical sales engineers study the clients’ requirements and offer solutions according to their specific needs. LME Gabions & High Security Fencing products LME’s Gabion products are approved
by the British Board of Agreement, UK, COPRO Authority — Belgium and AFNOR — France. Where security is of prime importance, LME’s high-security fencing system provides increased security in restricted areas for private housing, sports grounds, tennis courts, industrial estates, agricultural farms and ranches, gardens, afforestation areas, woods and forests, greenhouses, wildlife parks/zoos enclosures for animals. High security fencing system is used in high security areas, for example defence or police installations, airports, sea ports / harbours, oil terminals / oil installations and prisons, borders demarcating countries, power stations, sub-stations, transmitters and relay stations etc. LME also specialises in providing guard rail system, road barriers, bridge parapet railings, decorative cast aluminium & wrought iron, stainless steel products as per customers’ needs.
INTRACO
Big name in glass products Intraco UAE has gained a dominant position in the markets where it operates by maintaining some of the largest inventories of float glass and architectural high performance glass used in many different applications
LEADING GLASS products distributor Intraco UAE was established in Jebel Ali Free Zone 21 years ago. Today it is the sole distributor for four major international glass manufacturers and also the foremost choice of architects and design professionals looking for innovative architectural glass products. Intraco is the sole distributor of glass products manufactured by Zeledyne – Versalux ACH Visteon (formerly known as Ford glass), Pilkington (formerly known as Libbey Owens Ford (LOF), Viracon USA and Cardinal FG. It has also emerged as a leader in the sale, supply and delivery of float, reflective, coated, insulated and specialty glass products in the UAE and GCC. Intraco is also the sole distributor of Intrabond Composite Panels in the whole Middle East. Intrabond is the wholly-owned subsidiary of International Trading Holding. It manufactures the composite panels in South Carolina, USA, using the latest technology and high-
end raw materials. Intraco UAE has gained a dominant position in the markets where it operates by maintaining some of the largest inventories of float glass and architectural high performance glass used in many different applications. Intraco’s stock comprising a mix of tinted and pyrolytic coated glass is stored in two state-of-the-art facilities, which together offer 10,000 square metres of storage space, and are located in Jebel Ali Free Zone (North and South). By maintaining an optimum level of inventory Intraco is able to offer its customers timely delivery of goods within extremely short lead times. The company’s proximity to construction projects and its impressive track record of timely delivery of products has enabled Intraco UAE Limited to build strong relationships with building architects, engineering consultants and contractors. — Anil Kumar Vijayan
TPCO — Leader in Seamless OCTG & PIPES from China Tianjin Pipe Corp. Middle East Ltd launched operations in Jebel Ali in 1997 realising the potential of the Middle East market TIANJIN PIPE (GROUP) CORPORATION — CHINA is a multi-billion dollar company producing carbon steel seamless OCTG, Line Pipes, High-Pressure Cylinder Pipes and Structural Pipes having a total production capacity of 3.5 million tonnes. Its product range includes OCTG from 2-3/8 inch to 20 inch and Line pipe from 2 inch to 28 inch (wall thickness ranging from 3.5mm to 40mm) and have been used in more than 24 oil-fields, onshore and offshore in China representing a market share of over 50 per cent of the domestic market in OCTG. TPCO is listed among few mills in the world which can produce SEAMLESS pipes upto 28”. In 1997, Tianjin Pipe Corp. Middle East Ltd (TPCOME) launched its operations in Jebel Ali Free Zone realising the potential of the Middle East market. JAZA had the most suitable infrastructure and offered proximity to modern ports and GCC markets. “The reason we chose JAFZA at that time was because it was the ‘‘FIRST’’ & only duty free port available in this region which facilitated us especially to target the Middle Eastern countries. Besides, JAFZA was well-positioned to enable its partners to have the fastest possible access to the largest oil producing region,” recalls ABDULLAH JAN SABRI, the company’s MANAGING DIRECTOR. TPCOME has grown from a small office set-up to a multi-million dollar company within a span of 13 years and has expanded its operations to cover the entire Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and other markets like Libya, Iraq, Pakistan and Yemen. Thanks to the excellent facilities at JAFZA, TCPOME leased a 15,000-sq.mt yard to hold stocks of OCTG and Line pipes to meet urgent demand from the oil and gas companies in this region. “From 2500 tonnes stock of OCTG & Line pipes in 2002, we have increased our
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Abdullah Jan Sabri stock levels to 10,000 tonnes and by the end of 2011 we plan to achieve 12,500 tonnes. This is in addition to our direct delivery business where we have set a target of 200,000 tonnes for 2010. We are confident of reaching this heights under the dynamic leadership of Mr. Abdullah Jan Sabri and with excellent support from our parent company TPCO, China represented here by Mrs Xu Xiuqing (Deputy General Manager) and our dedicated sales team adds RENNY PHILIP, Business Development Manager of TPCOME.’’ TPCOME has been successful in introducing its gas tight premium connections (TPCQ/TPG2/TPFJ) in Middle East markets for drilling deep, deviated, horizontal wells and has already received orders for supply of Casings and Tubings with these connections from Pakistan, UAE, Yemen, Qatar & Iran this year. TPCO’s products are currently exported to over 93 countries and regions in Europe, America, Asia, Africa, Oceania and is now the largest exporter of seamless OCTG & PIPES from China and a leader in this industry. For further information email: tpcome@eim.ae
The reason we chose JAFZA at that time was because it was the ‘FIRST‘ & only duty free port available in this region which facilitated us especially to target the Middle Eastern countries
FLUIDRA MIDDLE EAST
Respect for water Our founding philosophy Fluidra Middle East FZE, is the Middle East branch for Fluidra multi-national Spanish group with headquarters in Sabadell (Barcelona), dedicated to develop applications for the sustainable use of water. The company specialises in solutions for swimming pool / wellness, irrigation, water treatment and applied fluid handling WATER is a scarce resource essential for life. Water is for Fluidra Middle East, the main reason for it being. We care for it, protect it and enjoy making it the centre of all our activities. Respect for water and its rational use is the founding philosophy of the group. Some of the companies that make up our group, Fluidra Middle East suppliers, have 40 years of experience and have grown with this vision, specialising in diverse water-related sectors, its conservation, use, handling, treatment and enjoyment. Fluidra Middle East FZE covers the entire cycle of water, offering a wide range of products for domestic applications and for public, agricultural or industrial facilities in the swimming pool and wellness sectors as well as in the fluid handling, irrigation and water treatment segments. Fluidra’s mission is to drive the community’s progress through the sustainable use of water in its leisure, domestic and industrial applications. Fluidra Middle East FZE, is the Middle East branch for Fluidra multi-national Spanish group with headquarters in Sabadell (Barcelona), dedicated to develop applications for the sustainable use of water. The company specialises in solutions
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for swimming pool / wellness, irrigation, water treatment and applied fluid handling. Fluidra is one of the Spanish industrial business groups with the greatest international reach. Fluidra under Fluidral Middle East name, supplies all the range of products in GCC countries using Dubai (Jebel Ali Free Zone) as a headquarters for Middle East. Fluidra’s Industry Division supplies equipment to Fluidra Middle East and centralises the management of production in Europe. Fluidra dominates nine production technologies: plastic injection, plastic extrusion, fibreglass spraying, stainless steel handling, glass coating, thermoplastic blow-moulding, rubber transformation, solid chlorine production and process engineering. Fluidra also counts with an automated logistics operator, Trace Logistics, with a surface area of 55,000 square metres and a capacity to expedite 150,000 pallets annually and make 20,000 daily box pickings. Fluidra’s business model integrates RD&I, production and sales/marketing through its extensive international network. Water treatment Fluidra Middle East under Astramatic brand name builds desalination plants using the Reverse Osmosis System designed to meet each need, using pre-assembled modular systems or turn-key plants, ranging from collection to the pumping of the water supply, according to the standards of water quality determined by the authorities of each country. More than 600 installations all over the world, gives the company experience in the design and supply of water process plants,
Francesc Raya, General Manager, Fluidra Middle East contributing solutions for the use of the water industry by means of different technologies. Swimming pool/Wellness Swimming pool/Wellness is the business unit dedicated to the design, production and distribution of all components and accessories for residential pools, commercial pools and wellness centres. This unit provides solutions for professionals and the general public. Its products are distributed in specialty shops, hardware stores, fitters and large retail premises. Among the main brands of the group there are AstralPool a sold through swimming pool professionals and in the mass distribution channel. The company offers a range of valueadded products for private or residential swimming pools, which provide comfort for the user and maximum sustainability (automated filter wash, automatic pool cleaner, led lighting, automatic covers, automatic measurement and regulation devices, etc.). As far as public swimming pools & wellness is concerned, the company is a leader in the construction of pools for sporting events. It has wide-ranging experience in providing major water sport facilities, including filtration facilities for the Asiatic Games in Doha 2006, The Palm Jumeirah, Durrat Al Bahrain, aquatic and leisure parks, spas, health centres and thalassotherapy facilities.
BIOTECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL LLC
Health through hygiene Biotechnology International LLC leads in household cleaning and personal hygiene products BIOTECHNOLOGY International LLC (BIC) was established in 1997 with Dubai as its headquarters selling household cleaning and personal hygiene products. Today, the company has grown into an ISO 9001:2008 CertiďŹ ed Company manufacturing products that have penetrated the Middle East Market under this brand name or as a private label. Since its inception, the company has followed a philosophy of total customer satisfaction. This commitment and trust placed on it by customers has enabled BIC to successfully face competition from major international players. The use of modern technology and high-quality local and imported raw materials enable BIC to manufacture products with the best standards. Biotechnology products are not only customer-friendly, they can clean better
and are more economical. The best quality chemicals are used providing a safe and productive working environment. BIC is also considered one of the leading manufacturers of high-quality inks, varnishes and solvents for Flexo and rotogravure printing including Invirtuo, a unique brand of ink that can be used in a wide range of printing applications including polyethylene ďŹ lms, polypropylene, BOPP, cartons and different forms of press printing. The products are indigenously formulated and tested at laboratories before reaching the market. BIC operates both
in mature and emerging markets which it continually reviews to ensure that it has the best opportunities for growth. BIC takes pride in its knowledge of local markets, which enables it to respond quickly and appropriately to local needs. BIC is focused on innovation, developing new brands as well as improving current products. BIC plans to invest its resources in developing and promoting its brand and product lines and invest in technology to enable it to expand Clean Up, Clean Me and Super Touch into the best private labels and consumer brands company in the Middle East.
GLOBAL TRANSFORMERS
Titan in transformers Global Transformers is one of Jebel Ali Free Zone’s towering transformer manufacturers, with a capacity to produce transformers ranging from 100 KVA to 100 MVA, up to 220 kV class
Anil Kumar Vijayan IT IS well-known that a well-equipped location like Jebel Ali Free Zone facilitates unhindered growth of all business organizations, yet there are companies that have outshone others with their extraordinary success. Global Transformers (GTS) FZCO is one such outstanding example in the field of transformer manufacturing. This company is credited with building the largest capacity transformer produced in the Gulf region — 63 MVA 132 KV class. In less than five years it has boosted its capacity to produce transformers ranging from 100 KVA to 100 MVA, up to 220 kV class. “Ours is the largest transformer manufacturing facility in the Gulf region in terms of size. At one point we supplied to 80 per cent of the Bahrain market. Our transformers have approval from most of the utilities, projects and oil and gas companies. We have a considerable market share in all the GCC markets and supply to Petroleum Development of Oman (PDO) and Canadian Nexon for their off-shore projects . Iran is another major market for our transformers,” says Taher Ali, Managing Partner & CEO of GTS.
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Taher Ali The company has been established under a technical collaboration with renowned European transformer manufacturer OCREV of Italy. OCREV has more than 88 years of expertise in the manufacturing and supply of power, distribution, CRT and special application transformers and its products incorporate the latest transformer technology. Its manufacturing process is supervised by qualified engineers with many years of expertise in the field of transformers. Global Transformers is part of the Abu Dhabi-based RMB Group. GTS’s 15,000-sq. m. dust-free plant, built over a sprawling 45,000-sq. m. plot in Jebel Ali Free Zone, is almost fully airconditioned and automated. “Our transformers require minimal service and they could be called zero defect transformers,” says Ali. “We also offer transformers that run on very special vegetable oils, that increase the life span of the transformers considerably. Also our transformers require negligible maintenance,” adds S.K. Shetty, General Manager of the company and a transformer manufacturing veteran.
The company has supplied transformers to various government and private entities in Abu Dhabi, including Masdar City. Being a carbon-neutral zero waste city, Masdar City needs special kind of transformers, which, only GTS is capable of supplying locally. The products and manufacturing facilities of the company have been inspected and approved by many leading international agencies like SGS, BV, CIS and American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). Many ratings of transformers manufactured by the company are type tested at KEMA of Netherlands, CESI of Italy & IPH Germany. They build the transformers almost from scratch. The entire process is done in-house. GTS’s product range covers different types of transformers required for a variety of applications in the energy sector. Apart from the standard distribution and large transformers GTS has also considerable market share in the special-purpose transformer category. “Generally these transformers are tailor made and designed and built as per customer requirement. It is very necessary to understand the customer’s need before designing the transformers. GTS has a highly experienced techno commercial team which can offer the best solutions for the customer’s requirement,” Shetty added. “Under the special category, we design and manufacture transformers for different applications. Unit earthling transformers, multi tap pad mounted transformers, furnace duty transformers for steel rolling mills etc are a few examples. GTS also has the expertise to build package substations complete with LV distribution panel and self-protected transformers with built-in HV fuses. Dry type transformers for marine and other similar uses are regularly manufactured and supplied to meet certain special applications. GTS will soon manufacture 132 KV Mobile substation and 100 MVA 230 KV transformers in their Jebel Ali Plant,” Shetty explained.
FRATERNITY OF INDIAN BUSINESSMEN
UNITY AT ITS BEST The Fraternity of Indian Businessmen, Jebel Ali Free Zone, facilitates networking among Indianowned and managed businesses within the free zone
FROM a motley group of Indians in JAFZ, getting together primarily for celebrating Indian festivals, emerged an informal association under the patronage of JAFZA Chairman, Sultan Bin Sulayem. This association was christened as The Fraternity of Indian Businessmen of Jebel Ali Free Zone. The aims of this Fraternity, which emerged gradually over the years, are several. Needless to say, they centered around ensuring JAFZ (a birthplace for most of these businessmen) remained an ideal free zone. JAFZ, a dream project of Late Shaikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, former ruler of Dubai, one must admit has no parallels. A port which arguably is the best in the world, if the speed with which cargo gets cleared and delivered is any indication, a Free Zone administration that has provided the best of infrastructure for businesses to flourish and expand and also a management team that understands and reacts to the needs of investors and labourers alike. The Fraternity of Indian Businessmen of Jebel Ali Free Zone compliments JAFZ on its Silver Jubilee year and wishes that it grows through many more jubilees…pulling along with it member industries.
POWER OF DIVERSIFICATION ESTABLISHED in 1974, the Palmon Group has been one of the foremost companies to set up its base in the Jebel Ali Free Zone. Following its success in the garments industry, the group diversified into varied ventures. Today, Palmon Group boasts an expansive portfolio of interests including: Palmonade for designer kitchens and customised solutions, Secure Plus for man-guarding and consultancy services, Huget Design for interior design and fit-out services, CP furniture for high-end German quality office solutions, Desert Blues for trendy high street fashion at affordable prices and Affascinare for designer ready-towear and couture. SHEER VARIETY JAFZ-based Venus Industries Ltd started its manufacturing operations in 1987 with a product range that includes non-stick cookware, rigid plastic packaging products, moulds and dies engineering works.
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PROVIDER OF SERVICES & SOLUTIONS THE Al Dobowi Group was formed in 1976 to address the needs of a growing tyre management and service industry in the Middle East. Today it has grown to become a leading player in the industry providing clients across four continents with superior AA DIVERSIFIED ENTITY Atraco is a group, which was founded in Dubai in 1976. It is a diversified entity with companies that are active in garment manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, distribution services, trading, commodities and real estate. The company employs over 4,500 people throughout the Middle East and Africa. It has operations in UAE, Kenya and Egypt.
PIONEER IN TRANSFORMERS & SWITCHGEAR Emirates Transformer & Switchgear Ltd., which was established in 1987, is a pioneer manufacturer of transformers and switchgear in the United Arab Emirates. In addition to having extended its product line, it has also developed a technological, administrative and marketing infrastructure that is comparable with some of the finest manufacturers of similar products worldwide. The Company is uniquely focused on becoming the most valued global provider of power and distribution products for utilities and industry. It has a technical collaboration with M/s. IEO Transformatoren B.V., Breda, The Netherlands, and enjoys the additional benefit of obtaining more information related to technological improvements and market trends from all over the world. KNOWN FOR FOOD BRANDS “KOLSON Food Ind LLC was established in JAFZA in 1987 as one of the first few food manufacturing units. The company manufactures pasta and macaroni/spaghettti under “Kolson” and several other brands. Sales of our products cover UAE and other GCC markets, Africa and USA. The manufacturing process is completely automatic and carried out under strict hygienic conditions and quality control set by HACCP system. The “Kolson” brand has been present in the GCC market since the last 40 years and has a valuable share in pasta market.”
services and unique solutions. It has grown beyond tyre management into providing clients with all the solutions with regard to motion, including batteries for motive power and automotive batteries, lubricants, conveyor belt systems and technical rubber products. Al Dobowi has a light manufacturing base in Africa, Europe and the Middle East. It employs over 1,200 people.
LEADER IN SNACK FOODS HUNTER Foods Limited FZCO is a leading snack foods manufacturing and distribution company located in the Jebel Ali Free Zone. The company was established in 1985 and has since then received several certifications and accreditations such as HACCP and SQF. Products manufactured by the company include regular snack foods such as potato chips and speciality gourmet snack foods, e.g. Lentil Poppadums, Corn Poppatillas, Fried Onions, Ice Lollies, etc. These products are sold under various brand names, i.e. Shikar, Hunter and Safari, each of which has strong brand equity. The company is reputed for continuous innovation, premium quality and attractive packaging. KIMOHA — FORCE TO RECKON KIMOHA Entrepreneurs Ltd., an ISO 90012008 certified company, was registered as a JAFZ community member in February 1988. Commencing its operations in a very humble way, it has slowly but steadily grown into a force to be reckoned with in the field of Paper and Label Conversion and Flexo-printing. Moving premises on a needbased manner almost three times, within Jebel Ali Free Zone itself, today it is poised to move into, what its managing director terms, “Once in a life time dream building” encompassing two plants (for paper and label), warehouse and corporate office. DUCON — DISPOSABLE FOOD PACKAGING DUCON Limited is the first production facility in the region to produce fully recyclable and disposable food packaging made from food grade aluminum foil. The company started its operations in the Jebel Ali Free Zone 1988 and has grown by leaps and bounds. Today, its clientele includes major airlines, industrial bakeries, multicuisine restaurants and fast food chains. Ducon has a fully automated production facility and its products are sold in the US, Eurozone, Middle East and South East Asia.
Your Trusted Partner for Engineering Solutions! Supertech group is a market leader in Industrial Engineering products and solutions offering Quality Engineering products and services for the total satisfaction of its diverse customer profile under the banners of Super Technical and Sun Power-Gen SUPER TECHNICAL came into existence in 1973 in Dubai, UAE serving the diverse Industrial customers in the UAE, Middle East and Indian sub-continent. Supertech Group relocated its head quarters in Jebel Ali Free Zone (South) on 31st January 2007. Supertech’s strengths are its dynamic and skilled professionals, world-renowned products, large inventory and over 37 years of vast Industrial engineering expertise. Supertech Group’s Chairman, Ashok L. Odhrani, spearheads the Group’s strategies, while his elder son Deepak Odhrani handles the Trading Divisions through Super Technical outlets located in Deira, Al Quoz branches in Dubai as well as in Qatar and Pakistan. His younger son Jitendra Odhrani oversees Sun Power-Gen, a company that specialises in Gas Turbine Services and Fluid Power Systems (ISO 9001 Certified) and is located in Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, in Dubai and Mussafah in Abu Dhabi, besides the Indian Operations. Supertech has long partnered some of the leading technology providers in the world like ‘Parker Hannifin’ Motion and Control, ‘Apollo / Bonney Forge’ Valves, ‘Elora’ Hand Tools, ‘MOOG’ Servo Valves, ‘Reed’ — Pipe Tools & Vices’, ‘Nuova Fima’ Measuring Instruments, ‘Sandvik / Rath Gibson’ Tubes…to name a few. Our core focus is on Process Instrumentation, Valves & Actuation, Filtration Solutions, Fluid Connectors & Seals, Hydraulic/Pneumatics, Industrial Engineering Tools and Chemicals & Adhesives. The industries catered to are: Oil & Gas, Primary Aluminum Smelters, Marine & Ship Building, Petrochemical, Construction
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Deepak A. Odhrani, Managing Director of Super Technical, Ashok L. Odhrani, Chairman of Supertech Group and Jitendra A. Odhrani, Managing Director of Sun Power-Gen and Manufacturing. Some of Supertech’s prestigious clients are global companies such as Schlumberger, Weatherford, G.E, McDermott as well as government-owned entities like ADNOC Group Companies, DEWA and Qatar Petroleum. The Group believes in providing extensive product training about the latest technology to all its customers. It has a technical support team, premier customer service team and state-of-the-art service centre supported by 24x7 mobile service van (Hose Doctor) for site repairs. “We are behind the scenes in almost everything that moves, be it the Automobiles, the Water Fountains, Manufacturing or the Rides in Amusement Parks,” says Deepak Odhrani, Managing Director of Super Technical. “Our company is working towards tackling the challenges facing mankind such
Jebel Ali Office
as Energy, Water, Food, Defence, Life Sciences, Infrastructure, Environment and Transportation. We are system integrators and solution providers for these technologies,” explains Jitendra Odhrani, Managing Director of Sun Power-Gen. He adds that the company’s growth strategy focuses on diversification in order to meet these challenges facing mankind. “We have benefited in many ways from JAFZA’s logistics and facilities. They are providing excellent services that can be ranked among the best in the world. We would like to thank JAFZA and Dubai Government for giving us an opportunity to become a strong regional player in the field of engineering excellence. We extend our warmest congratulations on the occasion of JAFZA’s 25th Anniversary,” they added.