The latest statistics published by Visa International, forecast that the value of e-commerce and Internet-related activities throughout the Middle East region would hit $1 billion by 2002. According to Visa, the current value of these activities in the region totals $250 million, making the Middle East one of the fastest growing areas in terms of e-commerce, Al-Quds Al-Arabi Daily reported.
The Mid-East computer software and hardware markets have been experiencing a significant increase in demand. The upcoming GITEX 2000 exhibition in Dubai is expected to provide a boost to the world's leading IT firms, and to help them promote their latest product innovations in the e-commerce sector. The disclosure of details on phase one of the Dubai Internet City, is expected next October, when GITEX 2000 will open.
GITEX 1999, the region’s biggest IT show, attracted 465 exhibitors from over 1,500 IT firms from 35 states. In total, 72,000 visitors were registered at this exhibition. The organizers anticipate that this year, approximately 80,000 people will tour GITEX 2000 booths. (albawaba.com news agency)
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