Bangladesh boasts 42 firms including Pran at Dubai Gulfood expo

Bangladesh is boasting a large pavilion with 42 participating companies including Pran-RFL Group, ACI Group and Akij Food and Beverage, showcasing their diverse food products at the five-day Gulfood Expo in the United Arab Emirates.

Gulfood 2024, the world's largest food and beverage trade show, is taking place in Dubai from 19 to 23 February.

This year's event features an estimated $12 billion in potential international trade deals across an exhibition floor spanning 24 event halls packed with displays from over 5,500 exhibitors.

Pran-RFL Group is showcasing its wide range of food and beverage products at the largest stall at the Bangladesh Pavilion at the expo. The company has been participating in the Gulfood Fair since 2013. 

The company is targeting buyers from Africa, the Middle East, America, Australia, and South Asia, said Executive Director Mizanur Rahman.

 "Currently our products are being sold in 145 countries. We want to deliver our products to a total of 200 countries soon. We believe this fair will be a great medium to deliver products to more countries. Like Bangladesh, we want to create demand for our products in other countries as well," he added.

The fair is an important opportunity for Bangladeshi companies to connect with major markets around the globe.

Other Bangladeshi companies participating in the fair include City Group, Meghna Group, and Bashundhara Group. These companies are showcasing a wide range of products, including processed foods, confectionery, and frozen foods.

Luthful Kabir Shaheen, Director (Business Development) at City Group said the company came up with a turnover of 3.6 billion in Bangladesh since independence. 

"Due to the quality of the products, its products have reached every home in the country. We are now trying to become global.

"We started exporting 5 years ago and now our products are going to 30 countries. I am getting great response in this fair. It is hoped that this year it will be possible to reach 50 countries with City Group's products," he added.

The Export Promotion Bureau of Bangladesh coordinates their participation, highlighting how both manufacturers and distributors benefit. 

The presence of major companies provides insights into global trends and consumer behaviour, shaping future offerings.

EPB Director Abu Mukhles Alamgir Hossain stated that the UAE re-exports 50% of its imported food to the Middle East, North Africa, and GCC countries.

Further, with the UAE itself importing 80% of its food needs and being a significant global business hub, this fair holds immense importance.

Ashish Kumar Sarkar, commercial counsellor, consulate General of Bangladesh in Dubai, said, "Like every year, many Bangladeshi companies have participated in this fair. Bangladeshi companies are presenting their products to big distributors, and they can also get an idea about the different types of food available in different countries of the world – gaining insight into global consumer needs and new innovations."