Al Ghurair Foods Sets Up First Corn Starch Plant In KEZAD To Boost UAE Food Security

Al Ghurair Foods has initiated the construction of a new Corn Starch Manufacturing Plant at Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD). This facility, unique in the region, aims to boost local food production and support the UAE’s National Strategy for Food Security.

Located on a 13.6-hectare site in KEZAD Area A – Al Ma’mourah, this standalone plant will cater to both local and international markets. It will produce various products such as native and modified starches, glucose syrups, and maltodextrin. These products will serve multiple sectors including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications.

The plant's initial processing capacity is set at 650 tons of corn per day, with plans to increase to 1,000 tons daily as demand grows. This project is expected to create over 200 jobs for the local workforce.

John Iossifidis, Group CEO of Al Ghurair, expressed pride in this new venture under Al Ghurair Foods. He stated, "We’re extremely proud to break ground on this new venture under Al Ghurair Foods, which represents another significant step in our journey to support the UAE’s food security ambitions. As the first facility of its kind in the region, this project not only allows us to enhance our production capabilities but also reinforces our commitment to pioneering innovative solutions in the industry. By investing in cutting-edge technology and working with local partners such as KEZAD, we are continuing to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth and ensuring the nation’s self-sufficiency in essential food categories."

Turgut Yegenaga, CEO of Al Ghurair Foods and Al Ghurair Resources International, highlighted the technological advancements of the facility. He noted, "This facility represents a pivotal advancement for Al Ghurair Foods, showcasing our commitment to leveraging the latest technologies for unmatched efficiency, precision, and product quality. By integrating advanced automation, we are optimising our production processes while also significantly reducing waste and energy consumption. This project reinforces our role in shaping a robust and self-sufficient food system in the UAE while setting new industry standards for excellence."

Alignment with KEZAD’s Vision

Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, CEO of Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi - KEZAD Group, praised Al Ghurair’s initiative. He said, "KEZAD Group commends Al Ghurair on the groundbreaking of the Corn Starch Manufacturing plant. Al Ghurair’s mission and vision for this facility is closely aligned with our own vision, and that of the leadership of the emirate, of enhancing the role of Abu Dhabi in food security across the region as well as creating job opportunities. This cutting-edge facility boosts our domestic production capabilities and we at KEZAD Group are proud to be part of this journey."

This development follows a few months after Al Ghurair Foods began constructing a Broiler Farm at KEZAD in May.

The new plant signifies a major step forward for Al Ghurair Foods by incorporating advanced technologies for improved efficiency and product quality. The integration of automation will optimise production processes while reducing waste and energy use.

This initiative underscores Al Ghurair Foods' dedication to fostering sustainable growth within the UAE's food sector.

With inputs from WAM