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Mid-East organic products market growing

The potential of the Middle East’s market for organic products is under explored and the sector has immense growth opportunities, according to Trade Arabia News Service.

The region’s organic food market, valued at about USD$227 million a year, was growing at a pace of nearly 20%, mainly driven by the rising affinity of the youth population to embrace healthy and natural lifestyles, the report said, quoting Nadim Al Fuqaha, managing director, Global Links, organisers of the Middle East Natural and Organic Product Expo 2010 (Menope 2010).

The eighth Menope expo was held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center from December 6 to 8. The three-day event drew participants from over 25 countries including UAE, Italy, US, UK, India, Germany, Belgium, China, Saudi Arabia and the Philippines.

“The organic products market in the region is at the threshold of growth and the current demand and sales volume reflects the state of European markets between 1985 and 1990,” said Al Fuqaha was quoted saying.

“In comparison to other global markets, even at low volumes, Middle East is still the fastest growing destination for natural and organic foods.”

Menope 2010 showcased a variety of products spanning across herbals and spices, food & beverages, cereal products, supplements, health care products, natural living, natural cosmetics, healing products, natural remedies, traditional medicines, spas, relaxation facilities, pet products and fabrics.

Joby Mathew Muricken, project manager of the event said the appeal of Menope as a platform for global organic product companies to engage the Middle East market was evident from the enthusiastic participation of over 100 companies from across the world despite the economic uncertainty.

Muricken said Menope is the only regional exhibition for organic and natural products and in the last eight years, the show has served as a platform for leading companies to enter the Middle East market.

--Source: TradeArabia News Service