The international “Gulfood” exhibition, held for three days in Dubai, featured food industry products from various countries, including Afghanistan.
Afghan products such as dried and fresh fruits, saffron, and beverages were displayed in ten booths at the exhibition.
Several Afghan participants showcasing agricultural and domestic products at the event said that the exhibition provides a significant opportunity for Afghan products to enter global markets.
Abdul Wahid, an Afghan businessman, said: “Each booth at this exhibition costs at least $15,000, and there is no exhibition more renowned than Gulfood in the world.”
Ismail Naseri, another Afghan businessman, said: “This exhibition is a major global event that features a dedicated section for Afghanistan every year. It is highly rewarding for Afghan agricultural products.”
The Gulfood exhibition is the world’s largest gathering of food and beverage industry professionals, held annually in Dubai since 1987.
Jeff Grieco, the president of the Afghan American Chamber of Commerce, who attended this year’s Gulfood exhibition, praised the interest of various countries, including the United States, in Afghan dried and fresh fruits, especially dates and raisins.
“We’re seeing more interest in the US market for Afghan raisins and dates, which are world class. They also sell pomegranates to major pomegranate juice manufacturers in the United States and Europe now as well. So the Afghans have made tremendous strides. We’re very proud of the success that they have achieved and we’re hoping that they will continue to expand their export markets to the US, Europe, Turkey and elsewhere,” Greico said.
Previously, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has said that Afghan agricultural products and domestic industries, including carpets, have played a significant role in all international exhibitions held in neighboring and regional countries.