The fourth edition of the India-GCC Buyers Sellers Meet on Food and Beverages kicked off today in Dubai, bringing together key players from the food and beverage industry across India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The event, organized by the Trade Promotion Council of India, aims to boost trade relations and showcase innovative Indian products to the wider GCC market. Thirty-six Indian companies and 170 buyers from GCC countries are participating in this year’s meet, which serves as a crucial platform for Indian exporters to display their diverse product range and forge valuable business connections. Leading regional retailers such as LuLu Group, Choithrams, and Nesto are among the prominent participants.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri K. Kalimuthu, Consul (Trade and Commerce) at CGI Dubai, highlighted the growing trade relations between India and the UAE.
He noted that bilateral trade reached over $85 billion last year. Shri Kalimuthu emphasized the potential for growth in the processed food segment, stating, “Nearly two-thirds of UAE’s imports from India come from fresh items like rice, wheat, meat, fresh vegetables, and special foods, while only one-third comes from processed and packaged foods. We have a lot of scope to contribute more from the processed food sector.”
The event comes at a time of thriving trade relations between India and the GCC, with recent trade volumes reaching significant milestones. Dubai’s strategic position as a re-export hub adds to the meet’s importance, offering Indian exporters access to broader markets within the GCC region.
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE is expected to play a pivotal role in facilitating trade discussions at the event. This agreement has streamlined procedures, reduced barriers, and encouraged mutual investments. As a result, it has created a favorable environment for business growth.
Participants can expect to see a wide array of cutting-edge food and beverage products from India, ranging from traditional delicacies to health-conscious offerings and emerging culinary trends. The event provides a unique opportunity for exhibitors and buyers to engage in productive discussions and explore potential partnerships and joint ventures.
By: Vinod Kumar (Dubai)
