Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — While an economic report expected an increase in Saudi Arabia's imports of food to SR130 billion in 2020 at an annual growth rate ranging between 7 and 8%, the 4th Foodex Saudi will host 35 countries on Nov. 21-24 at Jeddah Centre for Forums & Events and Conferences, organized by Reed Sunaidi Exhibitions. Rony Al Haddad exhibition director said about 230 exhibitors from 35 countries will exhibit best products of fresh, chilled and frozen foods, dairy products, services, canned goods, meat, poultry, snacks and desserts. Al Haddad said "Foodex Saudi is the largest Saudi exhibition specialized in food and beverage and provides the opportunity for those interested in distribution sector, retail and hospitality industry to make out new food products from more than 35 countries around the world and exchange business experiences with exhibitors." He noted that the new version has some additions — a specialized exhibition of bakeries and pastry featuring various cereals and bread products and industry leaders from all over the world. It also includes a culinary competition with participation of 140 chefs during the exhibition three days with arbitration by a 12 members committee, where winners will receive 7 gold medals. Reed Sunaidi will organize a program to coordinate business meetings among exhibitors and buyers and decision-makers of visitors specialized in food manufacturing and distribution. Al Haddad also forecast that fast-food market will increase to SR17 billion, while retail stores will expand to 50,000 stores within the framework of vision 2030. He noted that 209 exhibitors from 32 countries participated in last year's exhibition and showcased more than 500 brands, visited by 5,374 visitors and 140 chefs participated in the contest, which received wide response, confirming increased number of business visitors to about 33%.
