Dubai ( Suleman Jazib ) In a significant move to boost Pakistan’s food exports, Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Envoy to the UAE, inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion at the 30th edition of Gulfood 2025 in Dubai. The event, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from February 17-21, 2025, is one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade exhibitions, featuring over 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries.
Pakistan’s Strong Presence
Under the umbrella of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), 45 Pakistani companies are participating in the event, showcasing a wide range of agro-based products. In total, over 200 Pakistani companies are also privately participating in Gulfood 2025, reflecting the country’s growing presence in the global food market.
Ambassador Tirmizi’s Remarks
Ambassador Tirmizi expressed pride in Pakistan’s participation, highlighting the country’s upward trend in agro-based exports, particularly in the MENA region. He emphasized the UAE’s role as one of Pakistan’s key trading partners and noted that Gulfood offers an unparalleled platform for collaboration and innovation.
“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,” Ambassador Tirmizi said. “Our stalls are ideally designed and strategically located, with increased space to attract local and global buyers. There is significant interest in our products, including basmati rice, spices, pink salt, and cheese.”
Pakistan’s Agri-Food Exports
According to Mr. Ali Zeb Khan, Trade & Investment Counselor, Pakistan’s agri-food exports reached $8 billion globally in FY24, marking a 37% increase compared to the previous year. This growth was driven by significant increases in the exports of rice, maize, sesame, meat, edible fruits, and vegetables.
“The UAE is one of our key trading partners, and we are committed to further strengthening our trade ties,” Mr. Khan said. “Gulfood provides an ideal platform for Pakistani exporters to connect with global buyers and explore new business opportunities.”
Support from Pakistan Business Council
Mr. Shabbir Merchant, President of the Pakistan Business Council Dubai, pledged full support to Pakistani exhibitors, emphasizing the council’s commitment to promoting Pakistani products in the UAE and beyond.
“We are committed to supporting Pakistani businesses in the UAE and promoting Pakistani products globally,” Mr. Merchant said. “Gulfood is an excellent opportunity for Pakistani exporters to showcase their products and connect with global buyers.”
Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan
Malik Faisal Jehangir, Chairman of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), expressed gratitude to Ambassador Tirmizi and the Commercial Section, Pakistan Consulate Dubai, for their support and facilitation.
“We appreciate the efforts of Ambassador Tirmizi and the Commercial Section in promoting Pakistani rice exports globally,” Mr. Jehangir said. “Gulfood is an excellent platform for Pakistani rice exporters to connect with global buyers and explore new business opportunities.”
Pakistan’s Food Industry
Pakistan’s food industry is a significant sector of the country’s economy, accounting for over 20% of the GDP. The industry is diverse, with a range of products including rice, wheat, sugarcane, fruits, and vegetables.
Pakistan is the world’s fourth-largest producer of rice, and the country’s rice exports have been increasing steadily over the years. In addition to rice, Pakistan is also a significant producer of wheat, sugarcane, and fruits and vegetables.
Gulfood 2025
Gulfood 2025 is one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade exhibitions, featuring over 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries. The event provides a platform for food and beverage manufacturers, suppliers, and exporters to connect with global buyers and explore new business opportunities.
The event also features a range of conferences, seminars, and workshops, providing insights into the latest trends and developments in the food and beverage industry.
The Pakistan Pavilion at Gulfood 2025 is a testament to Pakistan’s growing presence in the global food market. With a strong presence of 45 Pakistani companies under TDAP and over 200 private companies, Pakistan is committed to showcasing its agro-based products to global buyers.
As Ambassador Tirmizi noted, Gulfood offers an unparalleled platform for collaboration and innovation, enabling Pakistani exporters to maximize business-to-business opportunities through knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration with global business leaders.
The event is expected to attract over 100,000 visitors from around the world, providing a unique opportunity for Pakistani exporters to connect with global buyers and explore new business opportunities.
With its strong presence at Gulfood 2025, Pakistan is poised to increase its share in the global food market, further strengthening its trade ties with the UAE and other countries in
