Food and Beverage Delegation to Saudi Food Show

Program dates

Saudi Food ShowExternal Link (21-23 May 2024) – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Why this market

There is strong global demand for Australian food and beverage products from the Middle East, including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. The region’s food market is forecast to reach 51.28 million metric tonnes in 2025, experiencing growth at a compound annual growth rate of 3.15%.

NSW's trading relationship with the Middle East is strong and improving, due to the reputation of NSW products and the demand for reliable and sustainable suppliers. Due to harsh climatic conditions in the region, it is largely import-dependent, and NSW is a major import source.

Key consumer trends in the GCC include rising health consciousness, demand for convenience and increased use of online grocery retail. There is also an increase in imported inputs for domestic food and beverage manufacturing.

Why you should participate

• Your participation at the NSW stand will be free of cost, covered by the NSW Government (however, flights, accommodation and incidental costs in KSA will have to be covered by you)
• Showcase your products and services to customers, buyers, partners, agents and distributors through the exhibition and business networking
• Develop an understanding of the Saudi Arabia market firsthand, and secure insights into recent trends and reforms in their domestic food and beverage sector, including Saudi Arabia’s commitment to its Vision 2030
• KSA is an increasingly liberalising market and represents substantial first mover advantages
• Receive on the ground assistance by the NSW Government through tailored market visits, briefings and on-the-stand support.

Who should participate

• Have headquarters in NSW
• Have a valid Australian Business Number (ABN) registered for NSW
• Have significant exporting capabilities and/or have experience in exporting to the Middle East
• The product or service must be produced primarily in NSW
• Have a website featuring the product or service
• Be prepared to adapt the product or service for the new market
• Be flexible regarding market-entry method
• Have resources to support marketing and development for a new market
• Health-foods, fresh and dried fruit, vegetables, nuts, seafood, meat and dairy or plant-based alternatives, and non-alcoholic beverages to the Middle East 
• Must be willing to travel to the exhibition on 21-23 May 2024 in Riyadh, covering own travel expenses.

The ideal participant

• Ability to place production/expiry dates on products
• Export plan and ability to provide export pricing
• Ability to sustain slightly extended payment cycles (for example, 30 to 60 days)
• Commitment to exporting.

Businesses not eligible for this stream

• Alcoholic products
• Companies acting as agents of food manufacturers
• Poultry products
• Participants of the 2023 Going Global programs to the Middle East and/or Saudi Arabia.

Ongoing advice and follow up

• Ongoing support provided by a dedicated NSW Government Export Adviser.

Apply

Expressions of interest closed on Friday 29 March 2024.