Gulfood 2023: Investment in UAE F&B sector a top priority to achieve food security The five-day premier event, starting today at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will debate vibrant trade, manufacturing and investment environment as well as highlight challenges to the industry.
Dubai – The UAE government has emphasized the need to invest in the food and beverage (F&B) sector to achieve food security in the country. The announcement was made at the Gulfood 2023 event, which began today at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The five-day premier event will focus on a vibrant trade, manufacturing, and investment environment and highlight challenges to the industry.
As one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade shows, Gulfood 2023 attracts industry professionals, experts, and investors from around the world. The event provides an opportunity for businesses to showcase their latest products, services, and innovations while discussing current and future trends in the industry.
The largest annual food and beverage sourcing event, Gulfood will bring together F&B communities from around the world at Dubai World Trade Centre from February 20-24 to chart the way forward. The 28th edition is set to be 30 per cent larger than the previous year, with 1,500 of the 5000+ confirmed exhibitors new to the show. Gulfood 2023’s record scale is due in part to the introduction of Gulfood Plus, a brand-new bespoke hall, where first-time exhibitors will showcase product innovations across 10,000 square metres of added floor space.
At the opening ceremony, officials stressed the importance of investing in the F&B sector to ensure food security for the country. With the UAE’s growing population and increasing demand for food, there is a need to develop sustainable agriculture practices and modern technologies to ensure a consistent supply of quality food.
In his keynote address, Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, emphasized the government’s commitment to investing in the F&B sector. “The food and beverage industry is a crucial sector in the UAE’s economy and a key driver of growth,” he said. “We are committed to investing in this sector and ensuring food security for our people.”
He added that the UAE is focusing on developing sustainable agriculture and modern technologies to ensure a consistent and secure supply of food. The government has also launched several initiatives to support local farmers and encourage the development of the F&B industry.
During the event, attendees will discuss the latest trends in the industry, including the shift towards healthier and sustainable food options. They will also explore the challenges facing the sector, including supply chain disruptions and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Gulfood 2023 will also provide an opportunity for businesses to showcase their latest products and services, with over 5,000 exhibitors expected to participate. The event will feature various pavilions, including the Plant-Based World Expo, the World of Food Safety Conference, and the Future Food Summit.
Major brands, leading businesses and food industry experts are all set to attend Gulfood exhibition to showcase an array of products, services, investment opportunities and discuss latest industry trends in the wake of rising inflation, climate change, food security and economic slowdown in major economies.
The premier food exhibition also paves the way for local entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized companies to strengthen their relations and connect with international companies, buyers and vendors, government and trade delegations; as well as share experiences and knowledge on the growing F&B sector in Dubai.
As the UAE continues to prioritize food security, events like Gulfood 2023 play a critical role in promoting investment and innovation in the F&B sector. With its focus on sustainable agriculture and modern technologies, the government aims to ensure a consistent supply of quality food for the country’s growing population.
