33 Lankan companies at Gulf Food 2013 in Dubai

Thirty three Sri Lankan companies participated in the Gulf Food 2013 in Dubai, displaying food and beverage products such as tea, spices, processed food, soft drinks, biscuits, virgin coconut oil, dried fruits and herbal products.

The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and the Sri Lanka Tea Board (SLTB) in collaboration with the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai organised two country pavilions for tea and other food items. Gulf Food is a fast growing international trade fair for the food and beverage sector and is rated third largest food exhibition in the world and the biggest in the MENA region.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador of Sri Lanka in UAE Dr. Mahinda Balasuriya mentioned the importance of UAE-Sri Lanka trade and economic relations and invited Sri Lanka's private sector to play a key role with productive business plans and to enhance the two-way trade between UAE and Sri Lanka. He said that Sri Lankan Missions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai will facilitate inquiries from Lankan companies for market opportunities in the region.

Consul General of Sri Lanka in Dubai Abdul Raheem emphasised the importance of Sri Lanka's participation at this exhibition.

At the 18th edition of Gulf Food, 4,200 companies from 110 countries took part this year. Food consumption in the UAE increased to US$ 7 billion in 2012 and is expected to grow to US$ 9 billion in 2013.