H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council, officially opened the ISM Middle East exhibition today, alongside co-located shows Gulfood Green and Private Label Middle East at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
Running from September 24th to 26th, 2024, the events are expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors across eight halls.
Sheikh Mansoor, accompanied by Helal Almarri, Director-General of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, toured ISM Middle East, the largest confectionery and snacks trade event in the region, and Gulfood Green, which focuses on sustainability in food production.
The opening of Gulfood Green featured the "Food for Future" Summit, with a panel discussion on food security and climate change. Abdulhakim Elwaer from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) highlighted that in 2023, 713-757 million people faced food insecurity globally, stressing the need for collaborative action, particularly in the Near East and Africa.
Gulfood Green’s Green Shoots Start-Up Zone attracted over 130 start-ups, showcasing innovative food solutions to major investors like Dubai Holding and the UAE Ministry of Economy.
Andrew Ive, Founder of Big Idea Ventures, praised the UAE’s leadership in food sustainability, stating that the event connects innovators with investors to turn sustainable ideas into reality.
ISM Middle East featured discussions on confectionery market trends and insights into entering MENA markets. Private Label Middle East also brought together suppliers and manufacturers from over 40 countries. All events are open exclusively to trade professionals.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
