Smart logistics, scalable technology and global connectivity: The key ingredients of Jafza’s F&B cluster

Smart logistics, scalable technology and global connectivity: The key ingredients of Jafza’s F&B cluster

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Holiday festivities and the resulting spike in demand for food items -- from fresh milk and meat to cereals and oils -- make the end of the year a busy period for manufacturers and distributors alike, as they face tight schedules, tight capacity, and overwhelming consumer expectations.

Global trade flows have evolved over the past three years, with agri-industries seeking new regional manufacturing bases with easy access to key target markets.

In the GCC, Dubai is the largest hub for the food and beverage (F&B) sector and the first choice for regional players.

The emirate’s geostrategic location makes it an ideal bridge between East-West and North-South markets. Coupled with a robust business ecosystem and strong government policies, this led to the emirate recording double-digit growth in exports in 2021.

Dubai’s external foodstuff trade also jumped 11 per cent year-on-year to reach AED 74 billion, up from AED 65.8 billion in 2020.

DP World has been a critical contributor to this growth. Its world-class smart digital logistics infrastructure and trade network have ensured ease of doing business for several F&B companies.

These also support national initiatives such as the National Food Security Strategy 2051, the “Make it in the Emirates” initiative and Operation