Twenty Victorian food and beverage companies are showcasing the very best the Australian state has to offer at an ongoing food and hospitality event Dubai.

Gulfood 2011 opened yesterday (February 27) at the World trade Centre, and will run up to March 2.

“The value of Victorian food exports to the Mena region is valued at around Dh2.8 billion ($762 million) per annum,” said John Butler, Victorian commissioner – Mena, State Government of Victoria, John Butler, Victorian Commissioner – MENA, State Government of Victoria, Australia, welcoming the companies to the Victorian Government Business Office (VGBO) stand.

“With one of the world’s most resilient and advanced economies, together with progressive regulatory systems and long-term sustainable government policies in place, the Victorian food industry has a very strong and sustainable product offering.”

“This has been recognised by our clients and buyers throughout the region, and we are happy to report a fantastic opening day at this year’s Gulfood show.   The vast range and high quality of products available from Victoria has prompted great interest, and we look forward to fostering continued business relationships throughout the region,” he added.

Victoria is the food basket of Australia, which is the fifth largest exporter of food products to the UAE accounting for eight per cent of the market, a statement said.

Currently there are almost 100 Victorian companies exporting to the region, with dairy, meat (including halal) and wheat and other grain products being the top products, it added. – TradeArabia News Service