Victoria Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford

Victoria’s Produce On Show To The Middle East

Victor P Taffa

Premium Victorian produce will be on show when more than 50 local companies lead a reinvigorated trade push to the Middle East at the world’s largest annual food and hospitality trade show, Gulfood 2017 in Dubai.

“Gulfood is the biggest food trade show in the world with over 5,000 exhibitors from 120 countries attracting 90,000 visitors from around the world.” Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford said.

“Our farmers and local food companies excel on the global stage and we’re proud to join them in Dubai this week as they showcase their amazing food and beverages.”

 

Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford arrived today with a delegation of the state’s best and most innovative food and beverage producers for the high profile event, which attracts key buyers from across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond.

Gulfood 2017 provides the perfect global platform for promoting Victoria’s world class food and beverages. Premium Victorian ice cream, dried fruit, quality beef, grass-fed lamb and handmade specialist cheeses will all be on display to the lucrative market.

Ms. Pulford will also use the trade delegation visit to highlight recent innovations, such as the introduction of electronic identification tagging for sheep and goats and its benefits for traceability and consumer trust.

Victoria has been a prominent Gulfood participant since 1999 and will this year host its first standalone dairy stand showcasing products from eight companies ranging from bulk commodity exporters through to boutique processors targeting the high-end food service industry.

A further 21 companies will be featured on the Andrews Government’s food and beverage stand, including producers and exporters of premium lamb and beef, horticultural products and processed foods.

Victoria is Australia’s largest exporter of premium lamb, dairy, horticultural products, and processed foods.

As the world has discovered more of Victoria’s premium products, the state’s food and beverage exports have grown by almost 23 % over the past 5 years to surpass $8.5 Billion.

“Our targeted trade mission programs are already proving successful, with 2015-16 Victoria’s biggest export year yet.” Minister for Small Business Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis said.

Middle East and North Africa is already one of Victoria’s largest food and fibre export destinations, valued at almost $1 Billion.

Running from 26 February to 2 March at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Gulfood 2017 is expected to attract more than 5,000 exhibitors and 95,000 visitors from all over the world.