Pakistan’s ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion at the 30th edition of Gulfood 2025, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from February 17-21, 2025. This event is one of the largest food and beverage trade exhibitions globally, with over 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries. The inauguration ceremony was also attended by Consul General Hussain Muhammad and Trade & Investment Counselor Ali Zeb Khan.
Under the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), 45 Pakistani companies are participating in the event, showcasing a diverse range of agro-based products such as rice, cereals, meat, dairy, spices, cheese, processed foods, bakery items, salt, herbal products, honey, horticulture, and juices. Additionally, more than 200 Pakistani companies are participating privately in Gulfood 2025, indicating Pakistan’s growing presence in the global food market.
Ambassador Tirmizi expressed pride in Pakistan’s participation, noting, “It is a matter of great pride that 45 companies under TDAP, along with a total of 200 Pakistani companies privately, are participating in this prestigious event. Our stalls are strategically located and designed to attract local and global buyers. There is significant interest in our products, including basmati rice, spices, pink salt, and cheese.”
He further emphasized the growing trend in Pakistan’s agro-based exports, particularly in the MENA region, and recognized the UAE as one of Pakistan’s key trading partners. “Gulfood provides an unmatched platform for collaboration and innovation, helping Pakistani exporters maximize business-to-business opportunities through knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration with global business leaders,” he added.
Ali Zeb Khan, Trade & Investment Counselor, shared that Pakistan’s agri-food exports reached $8 billion globally in FY24, marking a 37% increase from the previous year. This growth was largely driven by rising exports of rice, maize, sesame, meat, edible fruits, and vegetables.
Shabbir Merchant, President of the Pakistan Business Council Dubai, promised full support to Pakistani exhibitors, underlining the council’s commitment to promoting Pakistani products within the UAE and beyond.
Malik Faisal Jehangir, Chairman of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), expressed gratitude to Ambassador Tirmizi and the Commercial Section of the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai for their support and facilitation, which have been crucial in enhancing Pakistan’s participation in global trade events like Gulfood.
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