The emirate's hardware and tools trade was valued at $1.38bn (AED5.07bn) in 2016, with exports and re-exports into neighboring countries found to be worth $408.3m (AED1.5bn). The US, China, Italy, Germany, and India were Dubai's top five trading partners for construction-related equipment and machinery in 2016. According to a press statement, these countries accounted for 52%, or $707.8m (AED2.6bn), of all trade in Dubai's hardware and tools market last year. he data was revealed on the eve of Hardware+Tools Middle East 2017's 18th edition, which is currently taking place at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center. Hardware+Tools Middle East is dedicated to tools, hardware, materials and machinery, representing a broad spectrum of segments within the construction and technical industries. The three-day event was opened by HE Mattar Al Tayer, director general and chairman of the board of executive directors of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Remarking on the event's launch this year, Ahmed Pauwels, chief executive officer of organizer Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said the show would help international brands "looking to gain traction in the wider [Middle East and Africa] region". He continued: "A new development this year is the Tool It! Challenge, where we’ve invited contracting and fit-out firms, construction companies, or workshop owners, to nominate their most skilled technicians for an intensive test of will, as they grind, drill, and cut their way to glory among industry peers. "The competition features 48 technicians and comprises three categories: Woodwork Routing, Screw Driving, and Metal Working. "We wanted to recognize and reward the hard working men that are a crucial component of any successful project, while at the same time underline the importance of having top quality dependable tools in order to ensure the safety of the worker and the workplace," Pauwels added.