Future Food Forum 2023 opens today, rejecting strategies for regional food security and wellbeing

The event, supported by the Ministry of Economy, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Chamber and key industry stakeholders, will become a platform to chart the future roadmap for the growth and sustainability of the UAE F&B industry.

The fifth edition of the Future Food Forum 2023, the Middle East’s largest annual forum bringing together key stakeholders in the food and beverage sector, opens today (September 20, 2023) at Le Meridian Hotel from Dubai to discuss regional food security and sustainability, innovation and consumer well-being. with the aim of further strengthening public-private collaboration to ensure leadership in the sector.

Organized by Food & Beverage Business Group (F&B Group) under the patronage of the Ministry of Economy, Dubai Chamber, and supported by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism Dubai and Food Tech Valley, the event is expected welcoming more than 800 attendees, including top F&B industry executives, key government officials and business councils from around the world over the next two days. The Forum will be opened by His Excellency Abdulla Al Saleh, Undersecretary for Foreign Trade and Industry at the Ministry of Economy.

With the overarching theme “Inspiring Sustainable Wellbeing,” diverse panels and presentations will discuss trends and challenges in food investments, innovation and retail to deliver health-enhancing solutions. and holistic well-being of end consumers. Thought-provoking panel discussions at the event will focus on critical issues of food security and environmental sustainability, highlighting initiatives that drive a self-sustaining food supply and the role of Agri-Tech in improving food security in the Middle-East.

The first day of the event will host India-focused sessions and discuss topics such as the India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which is poised to strengthen food security and sustainability and to create a resilient food system through collaboration between stakeholders around the world. the two countries. Alongside, analyze investment trends in food tech startups, sustainable food initiatives, government-backed financing opportunities, and the growth potential of the Saudi agri-food industry, in line with Vision 2030.

“We are proud to benefit from the support of our esteemed partners and sponsors; their commitment to advancing the food and commerce sectors in the country is commendable. With their support, we are able to create a platform like Future Food Forum, which enables interaction between important stakeholders to discuss collaborations and opportunities in building a resilient and sustainable food ecosystem for the region “, commented Saleh Lootah, president of Food and Beverage. Business Group.

He added: “In addition to gaining insights into regulations, market trends and innovation, the Forum will take an in-depth look at consumer behaviors and nutritional strategies, food reformulation and the role of the private sector in promoting healthier food innovations. We also have the “Free From Food” exhibition as part of the event, highlighting this part. Varisessions will examine strategies for promoting locally grown produce. With the Forum taking place a few weeks before COP28, we hope to address food security challenges due to the impact of climate change and explore opportunities to foster a circular economy.

With the support of leading organizations and the participation of leading business councils from around the world and organizations such as the International Islamic Food Processors Association (IFPA), the Forum will establish the roadmap to enable the food sector business ecosystem to achieve economic and climate sustainability goals in the UAE. .

The two-day event is supported by DP World and leading industry sponsors including IFFCO, AGTHIA, Al Ghurair Foods, Almarai, SGS, Emirates Development Bank, Sadia and Hayatna as leading partners and industry organizations such than the IFPA. Meanwhile, Free From Food Dubai will highlight the thriving healthy, organic, vegan, plant-based, functional and gluten-free food sectors in Middle Eastern countries.

About the Future Food Forum:

The Future Food Forum 2023 is organized by the Food & Beverage Business Group; it aims to connect and develop the food and beverage manufacturing industry and leaders and foster industry growth. It is the largest gathering of senior leaders and policy makers to address changing consumption patterns and promote holistic health and well-being. The Forum will discuss trends and challenges in the region’s F&B sector. Additionally, with interactive panels, CEO roundtables and other activities, the Future Food Forum 2023 strives to become a one-stop platform for learning best practices.