The Victorian Government in Australia is showcasing a variety of Victoria’s food produce at this year’s Gulfood Trade Show, to try and further secure its share of the Middle Eastern trade market.
Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis is leading the trade mission to Gulfood in Dubai and said the Victorian Government was working hard to take advantage of new opportunities and growing prosperity in the Middle East.
The Victorian Government trade mission at the event will see Victorian companies promoting some of the state’s finest meat, dairy, fruit, vegetable and processed foods.
The Middle East market is also one of Victoria’s largest export destinations, with exports worth more than $2.76 billion in 2014-2015, which includes $1.2 billion in food and beverage exports. Victorian horticulture exports to the region are expected to grow, particularly in the UAE, which is now the 3rd highest value table grape market for Victoria.
“The Victorian Government is working towards assisting Victorian food and beverage producers win a bigger share of fast growing Middle East markets,” said Dalidakis.
“The growing prosperity of the region is opening up enormous new opportunities for Victorian producers to boost exports of our world class products. Gulfood will give participating companies an invaluable first-hand understanding of local market dynamics and the opportunity to create and strengthen trade and investment connections and partnerships.” He added.
Food security is also a major issue for MENA countries, driving opportunities for Victorian food and beverage suppliers who meet the highest international standards for quality management, food safety and halal products.
“The Middle East is one of Victoria’s fastest growing food and beverage markets, with many countries recognising Victoria’s strength in producing halal products that are high in quality and food safety,” said Victorian Commissioner to Middle East, Africa and Turkey.” Said Minister Dalidakis.
The Victorian Government also supports a number of inbound and outbound trade missions which showcase Victorian products to global markets around the world, including Foodex (Japan), Seoul Food and SIAL (China).
The government is also providing opportunities for overseas importers to engage with Victorian companies through inward missions, such as the Victorian Invitation Program, which will happen again in March this year.
