The Food & Beverage Manufacturing Industry 2021 Dialogue was recently hosted by DP World, UAE Region in collaboration with the UAE Food & Beverage Manufacturers Group (FBMG), highlighting the importance of the sector to the UAE’s economy.
The entity’s newly-launched Food & Beverage (F&B) Terminal will serve as a catalyst for positive change and growth in the food and beverage manufacturing industry.
Under the auspices of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Saleh Lootah, Chairman at UAE FBMG, has discussed the UAE Food & Beverage Manufacturers Group (FBMG) Annual Report 2020, which highlighted the core competencies of the F&B Manufacturing sector in the UAE that is home to 568 F&B factories with a maximum production capacity of 16,302 thousand tones.
“With a high inflow of tourists and the presence of globally renowned food and beverage brands, the UAE has been at the forefront of the F&B sector in the region for years. Currently, with the investments already made, the local production has sufficient capacity and headroom for growth, which is testimony of the scope and potential in the sector.” as per the report.
The FBMG Annual Report has recognized opportunities and emphasized the importance of maintaining sustainability in the overall F&B market with a focus on various sub-sectors like dairy products, poultry, seafood, fruits and vegetables, beverages, and the snacking industry.
The F&B sector is one of the most important economic pillars in DP World, UAE Region’s Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza). This industry has distinct advantages that make starting a food and beverage company an unrivalled potential for business development while maintaining the highest operating performance and economic viability.
Mohammed Al Muallem CEO & MD DP World, UAE Region
“The UAE has a well-developed food industry driven by its attractive investment environment. This makes it an ideal hub for F&B brands to thrive. In conjunction with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, last year The Emirates Food Security Council, revealed that 568 factories in the UAE produce 5.96 million tons of food and beverage products annually, with 2.3 million tons comprising essential food items. This is proof of the nation’s potential and capabilities. Additionally, the country’s various initiatives like ‘Operation 300bn’ and the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign have paved the way for the industry. Over the years, we have created an environment with facilities that can help F&B brands grow. Through our newly launched F&B Terminal, our ultimate aim is to create a sustainable and diversified economy in the UAE.”
“The primary goal of FBMG is facilitating growth and excellence in the F&B manufacturing industry, while also encouraging innovation and contributing to the industry and the nation. With the help of partners like DP World, UAE Region, we hope to stimulate consistent progress in the sector, while also enlightening the industry about the various opportunities available in the country,” commented Saleh Lootah, Chairman at UAE Food & Beverage Manufacturers Group (FBMG).
The UAE serves as a breeding ground for large-scale investment opportunities in food processing, as well as halal food and advanced agriculture markets. Over time, the country has established itself as a major F&B trade hub in the MENA region.
“The country ranked first in the MENA region and 18th in the world owing to its attractive investment environment in the F&B sector. Additionally, due to its strategic location and a growing tourism sector, the emirate of Dubai specifically offers immense opportunities. This Annual Report is of considerable importance due to the valuable information it provides, which reinforces the sector’s position and its leading reputation locally and globally,” stated Hassan Al Hashemi, Vice President, International Relations, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Furthermore, DP World, UAE Region has consistently supported and promoted small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UAE, launching three distinct incubation centers, each focusing on a different category, such as halal food companies, Latin American companies, and Indian companies to ensure the progress of F&B sector in the emirates.
