Philippine food exporters record $50.65mln sales at Gulfood

Philippine food exporters record $50.65mln sales at Gulfood

The Philippines generated $50.65 million in export sales, surpassing its target by over 300 percent, at the world's largest annual food and beverage expo, Gulfood 2023 at the Dubai World Trade Center in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Under the FOODPhilippines' banner, 18 food exporters showcased premium halal-certified, high-value, and innovative food products, namely fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, processed marine products, ethnic and gourmet products, non-alcoholic beverages, confectionery, biscuits, pastries, and other food and beverage categories.

According to the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the Filipino food exhibitors attracted 400 trade buyer inquiries in this year's expo, maintaining strong relations with regular buyers while also establishing leads with new prospects.

'We will continue to strengthen the Philippines' presence in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) by promoting Philippine food products and ingredients, especially halal food products, and supporting Filipino exhibitors in international trade shows,' said CITEM executive director, Dr. Edward L. Fereira.

Gulfood is the largest annual food and beverage sourcing event in the world, with 48 percent of exhibitors using Gulfood as an entry point into the market.

According to the Business Research Company, the global halal food market value increased to $1.5 billion in 2023 and is expected