Bord Bia and 16 Irish food companies are taking part in the world’s largest food and hospitality trade show, Gulfood, in Dubai this week.

Exports to the Gulf region, which includes Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Oman, increased by 28% in value terms last year to exceed €177m.

According to Michael Hussey, regional manager for Bord Bia in the Middle East, the region has great potential. In the past, before BSE, Irish Beef was the market leader. He says this is a premium market, with a large population of middle-class and foreign expats who have high disposable incomes. He says there is a ready market in the region for more halal Irish beef if it was available and adds that Irish beef has become very competitive due to the weaker euro.

“Retail outlets are our primary focus for exports at present but foodservice is showing promise, particularly in high-end establishments such as five-star hotels and restaurants, where people are willing to pay more if suppliers have a positive story to tell. We do, with our Origin Green story,” according to Hussey.

Some of the Irish companies participating include Dairygold, Dawn Farm Foods, Ashbourne Meats, the Irish Dairy Board and Glanbia.