Prepared By: Benoi Nair

“Cross-industry collaboration is vital for our sector to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Together, we can foster a more resilient and innovative food ecosystem that meets the needs of our future consumers.” – Mr. Al Hashemi

Dubai, UAE:

Mr. Mohamed Al Hashemi, CEO of Union Coop, recently participated in the sixth edition of the Future Food Forum, held on October 2-3, 2024, at Le Meridien Hotel in Dubai. His session, titled “Collaborating Across the Value Chain: Building Resilience and Innovation in the F&B Industry,” emphasized the critical role of cross-industry collaboration in strengthening resilience and driving innovation within the food and beverage sector.

The event was inaugurated by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy of the UAE, and organized by the UAE Food & Beverage Business Group (F&B Group) under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Economy. This year’s theme, “Future Consumer, Future Government, and Future Food,” highlighted the pressing need for innovative solutions in the F&B landscape.

A key highlight of the forum was a high-level ministerial discussion focused on the Food Cluster strategy, bringing together vital ministries such as the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, the Ministry of Economy, and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. Participants explored essential policy reforms, collaboration opportunities, and investment strategies aimed at enhancing the sector’s performance and future potential.

The agenda featured critical discussions on food security and climate change, with panels exploring innovative technologies and partnerships that are shaping the future of food production. Additional sessions focused on empowering SMEs in the UAE’s F&B manufacturing industry, promoting sustainability in value chains through packaging and circular economy practices, and examining the transformative role of e-commerce innovations in supply chains.

These sessions brought together experts and leaders from across the GCC, offering invaluable insights and strategies to enhance resilience, innovation, and collaboration in the evolving F&B landscape.