Economy of Jazireh-ye Qeshm

were fishermen and the remaining 20 percent were workers in related activities. One out of five active persons are engaged in fishery and related activities. In planning for the future, two areas should be emphasized, viz improvements to current efficiency, and the creation of new capacities and exploitation of recently identified resources. In addition to the present canning factory, there is a good potential for processing plants.

Main areas of development in connection with fishing are better exploitation of small pelagic and cephalopods resources, and the cultivation of oystres and shrimp. Other potentials lie in the utilization of une Sea of Oman.

Transit Trade

The transit trade system in effect on Qeshm Island is a result of the history of customs regulations and tariffs, The location of the island and the dynamism of its population. The flow of goods has been from countries south of the Persian Gulf to mainland Iran and also in the other direction for exports. Almost all goods are imported from Dubai, including the direct import of goods from the country of origin, transit through Dubai to Qeshm, or direct purchase in Dubai market and shipment to Qeshm.

On average, some 14,000 tons of goods per month have been brought to the island. The monthly average value of transit trade has been estimated at some USD 17 million. Compared with the total value of exports leaving Dubai for Iran during this period, QFA has transited 30 percent during 1991 and 1992. Traders take half, transporters 10 percent, and QFA almost 40 percent of the revenue generated from transit trade. In total, close to 5,000 people were involved in trade and related activities, of whom 94 percent in transport and unloading services, and the rest in wholesale trade.

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