The Economist Intelligence Unit Business Middle East reports that Volvo Car Overseas sold 1,358 cars in Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries in 2002, a 22% increase on the previous year.

The company reportedly said Volvo sales in 2002 strengthened significantly in the UAE, with its local distributor, Trading Enterprises, achieving a 61% increase in sales. Sales were also up significantly in Bahrain, but rose by just under 10% in Saudi Arabia.