Dubbed as the gateway to the Middle East market, the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) is more open to business and economic reforms as compared to other members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Its economic policies are conducive to businesses/investments, thus, it is a suitable venue for people who want to venture into this region.
The products exported to U.A.E. reach other GCC-member countries. At least 60% of the country’s imports are re-exported to their neighbor countries which results to more market exposure of the products exported and may eventually lead to direct exports to other GCC-member countries.
Gulfood is the region’s largest and most important food event. In its latest edition, 2,471 companies from 76 countries showcased a wide selection of foods and beverages, ingredients, and even kitchen equipment. The exhibition also welcomed 37,618 buyers from 140 countries, making it a strategic platform for companies eyeing the Middle East region.
And the Philippines is sure to be there! The excitement of Asia’s Food Paradise continues as the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines joins the 13th Gulf Food, Hotel and Equipment and Exhibition and Salon Culinaire on 24 – 27 February 2008 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, U.A.E.
In its 2005 participation, nine companies from the Philippines received 279 inquiries and have generated sales of US$ 6.2 million. This year’s Gulfood is expected to be another feat for the Philippines. There are over 2 million Filipinos who reside and work in the Middle East population providing a ready market for Philippine food and can influence local consumers to try Philippine food.
The Arab market will surely crave for Philippines’ delectable array of homegrown delicacies and specialties. Aside from offering a new flavor to the market, IFEX Philippines will also bring well-loved food products such as banana chips, dried mangoes, dried fish, cornic, and more, which our overseas Filipino workers definitely miss.
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