F&B sector continues growth at Dubai's Jebel Ali Free Zone
The food and beverages sector grew by 12 per cent in 2017
It was another positive year for the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) in 2017 as the food and beverage sector grew by 12 percent from 2016.
The number of companies in the sector rose to 570 from 507 and now employs more than 8,600 people – underlying the free zone’s appeal to companies wishing to launch and expand their businesses across the region.
“JAFZA is building on its track record as the region’s hub for this key sector of the economy, in line with UAE Vision 2021 launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice-president and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai,” said Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, DP World.
“The growth reflects our continued focus on developing this industry and attracting more F&B manufacturing businesses to establish themselves here. We’re committed to building on our in providing a world class business environment for F&B companies and this event provides a major platform to showcase our business-friendly services and our capacity to support Dubai and the UAE’s economic diversification strategy.”
Jafza is now home to F&B businesses from 75 countries that are reaching out to a market of more than 2.5 billion consumers in the Middle East, Africa, South and East Asia and the CIS states. Of these, 37 percent are from the Middle East region, with halal-certified food products of particular importance.
“The vision of our leadership to establish Dubai as the global Islamic economic capital provides a major boost to our economy by attracting foreign investment, especially those that are Halal food related,” added Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem.
“The Dubai Industrial Strategy also complements the competiveness of the food industry where local companies can partner global counterparts to increase exports. We are also focused on research and development in the industry to develop new products and commodities that will suit different tastes and attract consumers.”
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