Pakistan marks largest-ever presence at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai
TDAP showcases 67 companies at global food expo in UAE
DUBAI – The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) on Monday inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion at Gulfood 2026, marking the country’s largest-ever participation in the world’s leading food and beverage trade exhibition.
The 31st edition of Gulfood brings together over 1.5 million products from 8,500 exhibitors representing 195 countries across 12 food and beverage sectors.
Pakistan’s expanded presence highlights its commitment to boosting exports, diversifying markets, and strengthening engagement with global food value chains.
Record participation
This year, TDAP is facilitating 67 Pakistani companies, while an additional 75 are participating independently, across four specialised pavilions covering Rice, Pulses & Grains, World Food, Beverages, and Meat & Poultry sectors. The rice sector leads with 30 companies under TDAP, reflecting Pakistan’s growing footprint in the international agri-food marketplace.
Pakistan Pavilion
On the opening day, Athar Hussain Khokhar, Director General (Agro Division) TDAP, Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai, and the Trade Counsellor visited the Pakistan Pavilion at Dubai Expo City (DEC) and Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
During the tour, Trade & Investment Counsellor Ali Zeb Khan briefed the delegation on stall locations, pavilion design, media engagement, and B2B meetings arranged at the Pakistan Association Dubai.
Exhibitor engagement
The delegation visited each stall and interacted extensively with exhibitors. Companies expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and facilitation provided by the Pakistan Mission in Dubai.
Regional and international buyers demonstrated strong interest in a wide range of products including rice, cereals, dairy, spices, cheese, processed foods, bakery items, meat, salt, juices, and beverages, signalling promising export opportunities for Pakistani goods.
Gulfood Dubai
In addition to pavilion activities, Athar Hussain Khokhar represented Pakistan at the Gulfood Future Food 500 Summit held at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Speaking at the Al Mutaqua Ballroom, he highlighted the evolution of Smart Agri-Food Systems, government initiatives to attract investment in the agro sector, and Pakistan’s vital role in global food security, particularly as a leading rice supplier to more than 100 countries worldwide.