The food and beverage (F&B) sector based in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) showed significant growth in 2017, with the sector's volume of trade rising to 3.5 million metric tonnes, valued at Dh11.1 billion.

This accounted for 17.85 per cent and 15.37 per cent of Dubai's total F&B volume and value respectively. F&B is a major focus of Jafza's business portfolio with over 570 companies from 75 countries, including regional and global brands such as Unilever, Mars, AGC and Gulf Food Industries.

Of the F&B companies based in Jafza, 37 per cent are from the Middle East; 24 per cent from Asia-Pacific; 19 per cent from Europe; 10 per cent from the Americas; and 10 per cent from Africa.

"The growth of the food and beverage sector highlights Jafza's success in establishing itself as a destination of choice for companies in the Mena region," said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and chief executive of DP World.

The UAE's F&B sector has seen steady growth over the past two years. According to a BMI report, food sales are expected to grow at an annual average of 6.6 per cent over the next five years.

"By creating a world-class business environment, we are encouraging manufacturers to establish themselves here and develop new products and commodities that meet consumer demand," he added.

 

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