Future Food Forum 2023 laid out a comprehensive roadmap for the food sector’s trade ecosystem, aligning economic and climate sustainability goals in the UAE.
In a significant stride towards bolstering regional food security, sustainability, innovation, and consumer well-being, the Middle East’s largest annual gathering of industry leaders, the Future Food Forum 2023, commenced on September 12.
The event was inaugurated by Abdulla Al Saleh, Undersecretary of Foreign Trade and Industry at the UAE Ministry of Economy. Under the theme of “Inspiring Sustainable Well-being,” the forum brought together key players from the food and beverage (F&B) industry, government officials, and business leaders to underscore the imperative of cultivating self-reliant food supplies and leveraging agri-tech for heightened food security in the Middle East.
Mohammad Ali Al Kamali, COO of Manufacturing and Exports Development at Dubai Industries and Exports, emphasized the pivotal role played by the F&B manufacturing sector in the economy.
Al Kamali highlighted its contribution to economic growth, job creation, and paramount importance in ensuring food safety and meeting evolving demand while adhering to nutritional regulations. He urged the sector to seize opportunities presented by Dubai’s ambitious economic goals outlined in the D33 agenda.
Hosted at Le Meridian Hotel Dubai and organized by the UAE Food & Beverage Business Group (F&B Group), the two-day event received patronage from the UAE Ministry of Economy and Dubai Chamber, with support from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and Food Tech Valley.
The forum witnessed the official launch of F&B Group’s UAE Food Platform, a groundbreaking initiative supported by stakeholders and the government. This platform seamlessly integrates UAE food data into a unified hub, facilitating strategic decision-making.
Saleh Lootah, Chairman of the UAE Food & Beverage Business Group, emphasized the transformative moment for the F&B sector. He outlined the sector’s shift towards ensuring the UAE’s status as the regional food hub of excellence, driven by visionary government directives.
The spotlight on food security has grown more intense, particularly in light of the UAE’s reliance on food imports, prompting a renewed emphasis on boosting local production. The sector is also adapting to technological advancements and evolving business models, with e-commerce dynamics driving direct relationships between manufacturers and end-users.
The event featured prominent speakers and focused sessions on India and Saudi Arabia, discussing topics ranging from cross-border collaborations for food security to investment trends in food tech startups. The Free From Food exhibition, held in conjunction with the forum, showcased the thriving sectors of healthy, organic, vegan, plant-based, functional, and free-from foods across Middle Eastern countries.
Future Food Forum 2023 laid out a comprehensive roadmap for the food sector’s trade ecosystem, aligning economic and climate sustainability goals in the UAE.
The event garnered support from leading organizations and business councils, reinforcing its position as a pivotal platform for advancing the F&B sector in the region. Leading partners and sponsors, including IFFCO, AGTHIA, Al Ghurair Foods, Almarai, SGS, Emirates Development Bank, Sadia, and Hayatna, contributed to the event’s success. Expertise and insights from organizations like the International Islamic Food Processors Association (IFPA) further enriched the discussions.