Italian Agricultural Food Export to UAE increased by 46% in 2022

Over 180 Italian Food Producers & Michelin Star Chefs Visited Gulfood 2023

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) saw an increase in Italian agricultural food exports by 46% in 2022. Furthermore, it recorded a value of more than AED 1.6 billion between January and November. During the Gulfood 2023, over 180 Italian exhibitors showcased their products. Their motive was to promote Made in Italy products in UAE. 

Italy Pavilion – Gulfood 2023

The Italy Pavilion aims to promote Italian agricultural food and the internationalization of Italian Small and Medium F&B enterprises. According to reports, the export of Italian agri-food products to the UAE has seen a significant growth of 46% in 2022. 

Italian Cuisine in UAE

Italian cuisine has always been regarded as one of the best at a global level. Some of the major Italian Food and Beverage (F&B) products that gained traction in the UAE include Pasta & Cereal. In addition, exports of Italian raw ingredients like extra virgin olive oil, cheese and cured meats saw a significant increase in the UAE. Likewise, organic F&B products and agri-food products also saw an increase in exports by almost three times in 2022 in comparison to 2012.

Gulfood – World’s Largest F&B Event 

The 28th Edition of Gulfood 2023 event welcomed over 5,000+ exhibitors from 125+ countries. It was an estimated increase of 30% from last year. This year’s theme revolved around nutritional value and convenience in consumption. Other global F&B players displayed innovative products like honey jam and vitamin shots. The honey jam was also introduced which replaced refined sugar with honey. Likewise, innovative vitamin shot alternatives that triggered when the bottle cap was twisted were displayed. The cap is filled with flavors and vitamins while the bottle is filled with water and citric. Each drink contains more than 50% of the daily required vitamin and it also acts as a detox drink

UAE & Italy – Strengthen Partnership

A few days back, the UAE and Italy also signed agreements to cooperate in the field of new energy technologies and low-carbon solutions. During the two-day visit to the UAE, Italian Prime Minister Antonio Tajani stressed the need to enhance cooperation. The PM also said that the UAE is an important long-term strategic partner to Italy. The agreements included accelerating industrial growth and joint investments in green hydrogen and renewable energy. Such strategic partnerships further strengthen the bilateral ties between both countries and foster an environment of investment in the UAE.


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Author: Waqas Siddiqui
With 15+ years in market research, I help clients identify investment opportunities through tailored strategies, backed by business expertise and presence in Germany and UAE. Contact: waqas@researchkonnection.com