Gulfood, the largest food and beverage trade fair in the Middle East, starts this Monday (19th) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with more than 5,500 exhibitors from around 190 countries.
The fair is an opportunity for exporters worldwide to connect with buyers from the region, which has a significant growth potential.
In the United Arab Emirates, for example, more than half of the consumed food is imported. This consumption totaled USD 30.29 billion last year and is expected to advance in 2024 to USD 30.58 billion, and in 2025 (USD 30.94 billion). These projections are from the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce.
The country, in fact, increased its imports of chicken from Brazil – the world’s largest exporter – in January, as did Saudi Arabia, according to data from the Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA).
The second-largest buyer, the United Arab Emirates imported 38.7 thousand tons, with an increase of 7.5% compared to January last year. Saudi Arabia bought 7.9% more, reaching a total of 34.9 thousand tons.
In a statement released by the association, the director of Markets, Luís Rua, said that “despite the complex scenario in the Red Sea, the Middle Eastern nations continue to stand out, with significant increases in imports.”
The region is also the main destination for Brazilian duck meat, whose exports grew by 18.9% in 2023.
“Gulfood is a very attractive, diverse fair, where there is demand not only for commodities but also for high-value-added products,” said the CEO and secretary-general of the entity, Tamer Mansour.
With three decades of experience in global animal protein trade, Garra International will be present at the fair with its CEO and Regional Commercial Directors, as well as Traders from various parts of the globe.
The company has operations in more than ten countries and customers in around 60 markets, acting in all stages of foreign trade of proteins: financial, commercial, logistical, and marketing.
Garra International trades chicken, lamb, beef, buffalo, and duck, among others. The company’s stand will be located in Hall 3, number 324.