They offer new horizons and contacts, show innovations in Processing & Packaging and the diversity of the African megamarket for food. From 12th to 14th December 2023, the Food Africa and pacprocess MEA will once again become the scene of the latest technologies and concepts that build important bridges for cross-border partnerships.
At the end of the year, the highly acclaimed Food Africa and pacprocess Middle East Africa trade fairs will be presenting trends and innovations in the food, beverage, processing and packaging industries with a focus on the African continent and the MEA countries. More than 800 exhibitors from 32 countries in four halls will be held from 12 to 14 October. A new record awaited at the Egypt International Exhibition Center (EIEC), a new record. The fair duo is supported by the Egyptian Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade. Both events underline Egyptian and Africa’s commitment to economic growth and technological progress, as well as the importance of international trade and industry for the region.
The Food Africa, the No. 1 Trade Fair for the African Food Market, and pacprocess MEA, which focuses on the processing and packaging industry, are organized by IFP Egypt, Concept Exhibitions & Events and Messe Düsseldorf GmbH. Both trade fairs offer a unique platform under the roof of interpack alliance. This year’s partner country of Food Africa is Kuwait, which will be represented by a joint stand.
Demographic Dynamics and Economic Potential
The positive development of Food Africa and pacprocess MEA reflects the rapid market development. The population of Africa will grow from 1.42 billion people in 2022 to around 2.5 billion people in 2050 (source: Africon). Africa faces significant consumption change with increasing average income, increasing urbanization, increasing smartphone use and growing demand for health and wellness products – great opportunities for the food industry, consumer goods manufacturers and the packaging industry.
Future-oriented agenda
The event is characterized by a diverse programme focusing on future topics and sustainable developments. The repertoire of the trade fairs includes lectures, live cooking & barista shows as well as a hosted buyers program, which enables participants to connect directly with providers and establish new business relationships. More than 500 buyers have already signed up for B2B matchmaking. Especially for the promotion of women, there is a “SHE pavilion” for the first time in support of female entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs, organized by USAID and the Chamber of the Food Industry, and a “Women in Business” Get-Together. The innovation competition for small and medium-sized enterprises is also celebrating a premiere by GIZ, USAID, Food Export Council, Printing & Packaging Export Council.
Focus on sustainability and SAVE FOOD
This year’s pacprocess MEA is focusing particular emphasis on sustainability and the fight against food loss and waste. As part of the conference programme, visitors can expect not only inspiring awards ceremonies, but also panel discussions dedicated to these central themes. A highlight is the first presentation of the “Sustainability Design Award”, which will be honored with particularly sustainable products. In addition, the winner of the project competition of the SAVE FOOD initiative will have the opportunity to present his forward-looking project. Another milestone for 2023 is the partnership with SIG as a sustainability partner. This cooperation can help sustainability in the MEA region to promote it.
Conference Highlights: From Food Security to Export Opportunities
The Food Africa Conference covers key issues such as the Egyptian food and agriculture strategy with a focus on food security, followed by presentations on fresh products or specific topics such as dates and regional agricultural systems. Other topics include donor programmes, government organizations and export opportunities to Africa.
At the same time, the pacprocess conference offers insights into marketing and branding from FMCG with a discussion about future trends in packaging design and marketing. Other lectures cover topics such as sustainability, the protection of intellectual property, innovations against food loss and waste, market entry strategies for packaging manufacturers in emerging markets, safety, as well as quality and logistics in the pharmaceutical, chemical and cosmetics industries.
