JEDDAH, 21 May 2008 -- Saudi Arabia-based oils and fats majors are set to establish an extensive presence at the first 'Malaysia-UAE Palm Oil Trade Fair & Seminar (POTS) 2008,' which is being held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Dubai from May 26-27.
Leading players including Al-Qassim Food Factory and Savola Edible Oil are seeking to leverage the outstanding learning and networking opportunities at the event in line with the increasing demand for Malaysian Palm Oil in the Kingdom and its rapid growth as a leading center for refining and distribution of the product to the Middle East.
Industry representatives have also revealed that Malaysian palm oil exports to the Kingdom are expected to increase in 2008 from the 33,000 tons recorded in 2007, according to reports from the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC).
The event will feature plenary lectures on important issues concerning the regional Malaysian palm oil trade, including prices, health benefits, challenges, shipping and marketing, and current market trends. Among the topics to be discussed within the two-day seminar include a plenary lecture on 'The Global Oils and Fats Price Outlook' by Dr. Sarah Hickingbottom, LMC International UK; and 'Malaysian Palm Oil: Meeting the Challenges in the Middle East Market' by Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Yusof Basiron, CEO, MPOC.
A talk on 'Strengthening the Palm Oil Market in the Middle East' will also be delivered by Amir Qadri, marketing head, ERCO-IFFCO Group.
"We are proud to become part of the Saudi Arabian oils and fats market and its rapid maturity, as well as those of other emerging markets in the region.
This event has been developed to address and promote high standards in product quality and our aim is to aid industry players further expand their markets," said Ahmad Zafri Zawawi, regional director Middle East, MPOC, told the media yesterday.
© Arab News 2008
