By Majd Othman

KUWAIT: An exhibition of Chinese cars titled 'Dragon Gear 2022' commenced on Sept 28 and will continue until Oct 8 at 360 Kuwait. The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of Chinese Embassy representatives, including Economic and Commercial Counselor in Kuwait Cheng Yongru. 'Dragon Gear 2022' exhibition is an important concept in Kuwait's car market as the international car market has undergone significant changes over the last few years, with considerable increase in export of cars from China.

Regarding trade relations in the automotive sector between China and Kuwait, Cheng told Kuwait Times that the market value of the exported vehicles from China to Kuwait increased to reach 15 percent compared to the previous years, with 17,859 cars exported to Kuwait in the same year.

Cheng Yongru

"In the first half of 2022, the value of Chinese cars exported to the GCC countries reached $2.44 billion, an increase of 81 percent, while market volume in the GCC reached 148,000 cars, an increase of 60 percent," Cheng said on the sidelines of the exhibition. "Last year, China produced 26 million cars, while in the same year, China exported more than two million cars worldwide, including new energy vehicles," he added.

"On behalf of the Chinese Embassy, we are happy to see for the first time in Kuwait that all Chinese car brands have come together at one exhibition in this luxurious place, at a time when Chinese cars are becoming more popular in GCC countries and particularly in Kuwait. China has become one of the major global car exporters today," he pointed out.

Chinese cars on display at ‘Dragon Gear 2022’ exhibition

Cheng expressed his happiness in attending the inauguration of this important exhibition. Chinese cars have achieved outstanding performance and gained good reputation in the Kuwait market, with the presence of 22 car brands in the country. The market share of Chinese cars in Kuwait has increased remarkable over the last few years, overtaking similar markets. Chinese cars have achieved remarkable performance as far as technology, sturdiness, security and specifications are concerned, making them a main draw for customers and gaining a good reputation in Kuwait.

Most famous international brands are participating in 'Dragon Gear 2022' through local agencies and displaying all the new models for 2022/2023. 'Dragon Gear 2022' showcases new models of the most prestigious brands in China under one roof, as visitors can experience the most modern achievements of China in the automobile sector. At 'Dragon Gear 2022,' the most advanced models of Chinese cars are being exclusively displayed in Kuwait for the first time.

Meanwhile, Pride Media Company, the organizer of the exhibition, in the presence of Director General Usama Abdullah, Executive Director Naseeb Saab, Regional Director Emad Ammar and Marketing Manager Usama Al-Ayasen, expressed happiness in organizing the exhibition, thanking representatives of the Chinese Embassy and Counselor Cheng Yongru for their support and participation in the exhibition.

The company also thanked owners of all car agencies for participating in the exhibition, as well as Gulf Bank, the sponsor of the exhibition. Saab thanked the media and 360 Kuwait for the facilities provided and help extended to ensure the success of the exhibition. Saab said he is proud of the Chinese car agencies that participated in the exhibition, as 'Dragon Gear' is the first-of-its kind exhibition of Chinese cars in Kuwait. It has the potential to become an annual event, where citizens and residents can find an ideal platform to choose models of Chinese cars according to their needs, he added.