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Annual food imports to the GCC alone was estimated to be over US$ 12 billion in 2004.
"The GCC states, with a population of 30 million and one of the highest per capita food consumptions in the world, offer excellent business and trade opportunities for a wide range of agricultural commodities, bulk, packaged, frozen and prepared food," said Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of the DWTC.
Dubai, as the regions most strategic trading hub, is an influential meeting place for the global food industry.
"In response to growing demands, we have decided to increase the frequency of the show last year. This year's show will also see a 15 percent increase in net floor space and a 15 percent increase in the number of countries participating," he added.
A record number of exhibitors from nearly 70 countries including manufacturers, distributors and suppliers, representing all the key sectors within food and hospitality will be at the event, looking to capitalise on this rapid industry development.
"The market information indicates that the Middle East is becoming increasingly important to food vendors and manufacturers from across the globe. This year's event is therefore designed to bring into the spotlight the significant opportunities for business development on offer, by uniting specialist suppliers from all over the world with importers, distributors and buyers. Making Gulfood a must attend event,"
said Al Marri.
Also new to Gulfood 2006 is the Dubai International Food Safety Conference, organised by the Public Health Department of Dubai Municipality. Industry experts from the US, Canada, New Zealand and Australia have been invited to debate on a number of crucial issues facing the food safety industry today. Topics will include international and local standards and regulations, food safety systems, food labelling and documentations, risk analysis and e-certification.
"This partnership with Dubai Municipality is an exciting addition to the Gulfood itinerary and offers visitors, as well as exhibitors a unique opportunity to hear leading specialists share their expertise on ways to combat the health and safety issues facing the food industry today. Topics include food safety management strategies, regulatory policies and innovative technology applications," added Al Marri.
The Emirates International Salon Culinaire Chefs' competition adds to the excitement at Gulfood once again. Organised by the Emirates Culinary Guild, a member of the World Association of Cook's Societies (WACS), this event runs throughout the four days of the exhibition and will have more than 1,000 Chefs from all over the world competing against each other for the coveted awards.
Celebrity Chefs who will be responsible for judging this world-class competition include Australian Chef Scott Webster of Australian Culinary Consultants and Paul Gayler, Executive Chef at The Lanesborough on Hyde Park, London, a published cookery author with numerous TV appearances to his credit.
Gulfood 2006 - The 11th Gulf Food, Hotel and Equipment Exhibition and Salon Culinaire, will be held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from 19 - 22 February 2006. The opening hours are 11.00 to 19.00 on the 19 - 21 February, and 11.00 to 17.00 on the 22 February.
Gulfood is strictly a trade-only event and is open for business and trade visitors only, proof of which must be provided at registration. General public and children are not allowed into the exhibition.
Anne-Birte Stensgaard, Senior News Editor
