Amin Abbas

DUBAI: The Japanese Pavilion came back for the 27th edition of Gulfood in the UAE from Feb. 13 – 17, with many Japanese participants aiming to make their products available in the region.

Supported by the Japan External Trade Organization in Dubai (JETRO), the Japanese Pavilion at Gulfood featured various foods and beverages from over 30 exhibitors, including big brands such as Kewpie, Shibanuma Soy Sauce International and Daiichi Foods.

Toshiya Sorimachi, Director of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries & Food at JETRO Dubai said: “The Japanese Pavilion has been participating in Gulfood every year.”

“Last year, the exhibition was held by connecting Japan and Dubai via the Internet and having visitors exchange opinions and have business talks. This year, we have returned to the traditional face-to-face exchange of opinions and business negotiations,” he said.

“It was expected that the number of Japanese companies participating in the exhibition would be small due to the event held under the pandemic, but 21 companies participated.”

Sorimachi said the demand for Japanese ingredients is increasing, thanks to the widespread of Japanese restaurants in the region. There were businesses that sell specific seasonings that are the basis of the Japanese taste.

Companies related to sushi ingredients were also participating as well as those working with desserts, teas and rice.

“I would like to take this opportunity to let people in the Middle East know the true taste of Japanese products,” he added.

The next edition of Gulfood will happen next year from Feb. 20- 24 2023.