think there is a lot more potential in the region for Irish exports. It’s a very affluent market with a very young population. Bord Bia expects population growth will play a significant role in the surge in demand for food and food imports in the GCC region. At the turn of the century there were 28.5 million people living in the GCC member states according to UN statistics. By 2010, this had increased to 44.5
million people, a 56 per cent increase in population in one decade. By 2020 it is forecast the population in GCC members will exceed 50 million people. “It’s a very young, vibrant population.”
Michael explains that Bord Bia will support the development of exports to the region by engaging with the relevant governments, ensuring the “pathway is clear for Irish exports”.
Furthermore, it will engage with retailer and foodservice businesses to drive exports of food
and beverages into the market and also support trade links for Irish companies exporting to the
Middle East.
Michael will also be getting involved with such organisations as Green Box, a voluntary group of
like-minded foodies working in the UAE, which raises awareness of Irish food and drink products
in the region. The highlight of these efforts is the annual Green Box competition, which sees
teams showcase creative recipes based on a selection of high-end Irish produce. The 2013 event
was attended by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney during his
trade mission to the Middle East.
http://www.irishfoodmagazine.com
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