Dubai: Italian food exports to the UAE are on an upward trajectory, having grown by 6% in 2024, with expectations of a 10% increase in 2025, according to the Italian Trade Agency.
According to Emirates News Agency, Matteo Zoppas, President of the Italian Trade Agency, announced Italy's plans to boost its food exports to the UAE in 2025, targeting growth exceeding 10% compared to the previous year. He made these remarks while speaking to Emirates News Agency on the sidelines of Gulfood 2025, which commenced today at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Zoppas highlighted that beverages, baked goods, and dairy products saw the highest growth rates in 2024, averaging a 30% increase. He further noted that Italian companies are preparing to launch new organic and health-focused products to align with shifting consumer trends in the region.
Italy's participation in Gulfood 2025 with a pavilion showcasing over 200 companies underscores its intensified focus on the UAE and Middle Eastern markets. Zoppas pointed out that the growth in Italian food exports to the UAE is fueled by the strong demand for premium and sustainable Italian products.
He also elaborated on the initiatives by the Italian government, in partnership with the Italian Trade Agency, to support small and medium-sized enterprises in expanding into international markets, particularly in the Gulf region. The UAE is seen as a crucial entry point to larger markets.
Zoppas concluded by stating Italy's ambition to elevate its total global food exports from £70 billion in 2024 to £100 billion in the coming years, with strategic emphasis on markets like the UAE, which imports 85% of its food requirements.
