Brazil expects $659 million in business from Dubai food trade show

The Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (APEX) is taking 86 Brazilian suppliers to Gulfood, the largest food and drink trade show of the Middle East, which takes place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from February 21 to 25. APEX expects to bring in $659 million worth of new business during the trade show and over the next 12 months.

Last year, 72 Brazilian exhibitors were at Gulfood, resulting in deals of $646 million. This year, APEX expects a 2% increase in the amount of trade. Rafael Prado, Business coordinator, says the current domestic economic slowdown and the dollar hike have increased stirred up interest of Brazil's businesses in exporting.

“There's a growing demand from [Brazilian] businesses, amid the sluggish domestic economy and the depreciation of the real [against the dollar],” Prado said. He added that APEX's initiatives to promote exports are ongoing, and emphasized business need to prepare before looking abroad. “More than just wanting to export, it takes action [going to business rounds and trade shows],” he said.

This year, Prado said, Brazilian exhibitors will be trained to identify potential buyers at Gulfood. In addition, Brazil's hall at the exhibit will feature two restaurants for traditional cuisine and meat tasting. “We're introducing related services, such as having a chef educate exporters about cultural differences.”

According to APEX, Brazil exported $10 billion in food and drink products to the Middle East and North Africa in 2015. The two regions are Brazil's potential markets at Gulfood. Chicken, corn, sugar, and beef were among the highlights.

Translated by Mayra Borges