January – April 05: Exports to Arab countries up 8.3%

According to figures published by the Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute, during the first quarter of 2005, 66 Israeli companies exported to Iraq , mainly to the US Army.
 
In the first three months period, security and consumer exports to Iraq totaled $220,000, down 96% from $5 million the corresponding quarter of 2004. The number of Israeli exporters to Jordan rose in 2004 by 120%, to 1,800.
 
However, despite the rise in the number of Israeli exporters, exports to Jordan fell by 1.5% in the first three months to $29 million. Exports to Jordan consisted mostly of furniture, clothing and printing. The figures also show that Israeli exports to Arab countries rose by 8.3% in the first quarter of 2005 to $42 million. Indirect exports via third countries added according to Israel Export Institute another $3 million to total exports.
 
The figures also show that 35 Israeli companies operate in the Gulf Emirates, a rise of 52%. Israeli exports to the Gulf Emirates rose by 37% to $300,000.
 
Seven Israeli companies operate in Tunisia, compared with two in 2003. Exports to Tunisia totaled $600,000 a 700% increase, compared with last year.
 
Morocco increased its import from Israel by 28%, to $1.7. 28 Israeli companies are currently active in Morocco.
 
Egypt, the largest potential market for Israeli made goods and services is gradually opening up to Israeli exporters. Exports to Egypt are expected to increase, thanks to joint production of customs-exempt good to the US at Egyptian Qualified Industrial Zone (QIZ). Since the QIZ treaty was signed in the first quarter, exports to Egypt have gone up by 72% to $10 million. The number of Israeli exporters to Egypt rose by 9% in 2004 to 123.