Dubai-China trade jumps to 19.4 bln dlrs

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DUBAI (AFP) — Trade between China and the Gulf emirate of Dubai jumped to 19.4 billion dollars in 2007, almost all of it in imports from Beijing, according to figures released in Dubai Saturday.

The figures compiled by government conglomerate Dubai World showed that exchanges rose from 13.18 billion dollars in 2006 to 19.4 billion dollars last year, a statement said.

China topped the list of countries from which Dubai imports goods, with imports valued at 19 billion dollars. Trade in the other direction, including re-exports, amounted to 0.4 billion.

Dubai, a member of the oil-rich United Arab Emirates, is a regional trade and tourism hub. UAE Prime Minister and Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashed al-Maktoum will visit China starting March 31 to boost economic links.