29 Pakistani companies participated in the 10th edition of Gulfood Manufacturing 2024, a prominent event aiming to showcase the global food manufacturing industry, announced the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).
The exhibition, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from November 5 to 7, marked Pakistan’s debut appearance. TDAP chief Zubair Motiwala inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion, emphasizing the potential of Pakistani companies in food manufacturing and export.
“It’s a wonderful experience, and I am immensely pleased that Pakistani exhibitors are here to avail this opportunity for showcasing their packaging and food processing capabilities,” Motiwala stated, as per a release from the Pakistani consulate in Dubai.
Under TDAP’s guidance, 21 Pakistani companies exhibited products and services across food ingredients, processing, packaging, printing, labeling, and supply chain solutions for the food and beverage industry. Additionally, eight other Pakistani companies participated independently.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, noted the significance of these contributions to the event. Both Motiwala and Ambassador Tirmizi visited the Pakistan Pavilion, engaging with exhibitors to discuss their products and market strategies.
The commercial section of Pakistan’s consulate in Dubai supported exhibitors with pre-event arrangements, facilitating a smooth participation experience.
Abdul Wahab, director of Faisalabad-based Nadeem Engineering Company, a food packaging machine manufacturer, shared that businesses from across the Middle East showed strong interest in his company’s machinery and products.
“Our competitive prices and high quality helped initiate many business deals, which we hope to finalize in the coming weeks,” Wahab told news reporters.
Sheikh Abdul Qayyum, CEO of Karachi-based Lunwa Biz Packaging, praised the Pakistan Pavilion initiative, noting that it generated a “good response” from visitors.
“Some good deals and memorandums of understanding have been signed, and we are working to bring them to final maturity,” he said.
Qayyum also highlighted the support received from TDAP, which offered his company a booth valued at Rs2.5 million for Rs0.7 million. “This assistance allowed us to make efforts to utilize this opportunity,” he added.
Since its inception in 2014, Gulfood Manufacturing has been at the forefront of innovation in food processing, drawing exhibitors worldwide. This year, the event hosts over 1,200 suppliers from more than 60 countries, highlighting the global scale and networking potential for participants.