Gulfood 2024 Elevates Dubai As A Global Hub In The Food & Beverage Sector

Gulfood 2024, the world's largest annual food and beverage sourcing event, is currently underway at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), marking its second day with an impressive turnout. This year's event, celebrating its 29th iteration, has successfully attracted communities from over 190 countries, showcasing more than 5,500 exhibitors across 24 halls, including 125 country pavilions. The event has been a hub for forging significant commercial deals and partnerships, with transactions reaching into the billions of dollars.

Bryony Hilless, the Australian Consul-General in Dubai and General Manager for the Middle East, Africa, and Pakistan, highlighted the critical role of Gulfood in facilitating international trade. Australia's food and agricultural exports to the UAE alone amount to nearly US$1.3 billion out of a total of almost US$3.2 billion in exports. Hilless emphasized Gulfood's evolution from a regional trade show to a global phenomenon essential for showcasing exceptional products in the food and beverage industry.

Greg Tyler, President and CEO of the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, shared his optimistic outlook for this year's event based on past success. Last year, the council recorded immediate sales of US$2.6 million during Gulfood, with an additional US$7.5 million following the event and established 160 new contacts. Tyler anticipates even greater foot traffic and business opportunities at Gulfood 2024.

Rizwan Ahmed, Executive Director at IFFCO Group, praised Gulfood for its pivotal role in the food and beverage sector. The event aligns with IFFCO Group's core values by providing a premier platform for engaging with industry peers, showcasing innovations, and fostering new business opportunities.

Abdul Karim Al-Hamdawi, General Manager of the promotional program for Tunisian canned olive oil, underscored the importance of Gulfood for promoting Tunisian olive oil in promising Arab Gulf markets. The participation aims to enhance Tunisia's presence in global markets and develop commercial relationships to access new markets.

Gulfood 2024 continues to serve as a critical platform for companies within the food industry to present their products and services to influential buyers worldwide. The event facilitates intercontinental business deals and remains the focal point for global food and beverage sourcing.

With inputs from WAM