SIAL to welcome record visitors

SIAL Middle East is set to welcome a record number of visitors as more than 900 visitors signed up to showcase innovative products at the exhibition.
Global food innovation, food security and the very latest industry trends will headline the 7th edition of SIAL Middle East, which returns to Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec) from December 5-7, 2016.
More than 900 exhibitors, over 22,000 trade visitors and buyers, and 30-plus national pavilions will make up this year's exciting event along with 500 hosted VIP buyers.
Thamer Al Qasemi, chairman of the organising committee of SIAL Middle East 2016, said this exhibition has become one of the leading F&B events in the region, and embodies the leadership and the support of Shaikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, to adopt a strategic vision aimed at food sustainability and safety.
"Today, the UAE enriches the foundations of excellence and creativity to implement its ambitious plans to achieve optimum levels of well-being and happiness for the community," Al Qasemi said at the Press conference on Monday.
According to research from Economic Intelligent Unit, food imports in the GCC are expected to reach $53.1 billion in the next four years, furthermore, the World Bank projects the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region's food market could exceed $1 trillion by 2030. "The F&B sector is hugely important to the region and there's certainly plenty to discuss and debate as we move forward. SIAL provides that perfect platform, with some 22,000 senior decision makers from major food companies, representatives from F&B outlets and hotels, food retailers, Government officials, distributors, importer and exporter exhibitors, and hosted VIP buyers are expected to attend the event," added Al Qasemi.
Fadi Saad, director, SIAL Middle East, said this event continues its remarkable growth and development. "We are delighted to play our part in supporting the industry at all levels and look forward to our biggest event yet,"
Mubarak Al Shamsi, director of Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau at Abu Dhabi Tourism & Cultural Authority, said: "Our aim is to provide a unique experience combining cooking and entertainment to an audience of different nationalities and cultures." SIAL is organised in cooperation with Strategic Partner, Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority and supported by Abu Dhabi Chamber as host sponsor and in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Food Festival. - business@khaleejtimes.com