The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (Unido) has hosted one-to-one investment meetings in Abu Dhabi for investors and food manufacturers hoping to set up food businesses in the region.

UNIDO stand at SIAL Abu Dhabi Food Exhibition 2011

In partnership with Abu Dhabi Department for Economic Development (DED) and the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (Kizad), Unido’s Investment and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) has organized the meetings between technology suppliers, investors and food and beverage companies to facilitate manufacturing operations in the Middle East and develop joint investment opportunities.

Having taken place at SIAL Middle East until November 23 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec), the industrial investment meetings are designed to encourage investment in food manufacturing in the region, and in doing so reduce reliance on imports, contributing to food security in the region, and creating more jobs.

The DED is setting up dedicated agencies to support exports from home grown companies as well as attracting foreign investment into Abu Dhabi.  Its services are part of the value-proposition of the UAE capital as a global investment location.

UNIDO has confirmed that 50 companies have signed up for the meetings with top industrialists and investors from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Oman.

With full backing from regional governments, potential investors and manufacturers are being offered economic incentives to set up operations in the region, including grants to simplified long term loans at no interest, access to land, subsidised electricity, and tax exemption.

“Nationally manufactured products will receive government help in export and priority in public tenders,” said Dr Hasshim Hussein, Head of UNIDO ITPO Bahrain.

“The GCC region’s food production deficit now stands at $25.8 billion,” added Hussein. “As food consumption continues to grow coupled with growing consumer preferences toward processed and packaged convenience foods, there are substantial opportunities for manufacturing companies and investors to establish and expand operations in the region.”

In addition, UNIDO's investment promotion expert Mr. Afif Barhoumi also conducted a 45 minute workshop titled "Successfully building and developing a small grocery business". Key points discussed and highlighted at the workshop include:

1. Meeting the demands of consumers to maximize potential.
2. Choosing the right value-added services to offer in your outlet to increase competitiveness and profitability.
3. Adapting to new regulations and standards to enhance your sales and business.

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