Dubai - Mubasher: Food and beverages sector in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) grew by 12% in 2017.

The number of operating companies in the sector increased from from 507 in 2016 to 570 last year.

DP World chairman and CEO Sultan bin Sulayem said that “Jafza is building on its track record as the region’s hub for this key sector of the economy, in line with UAE Vision 2021 launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The growth reflects our continued focus on developing this industry and attracting more F&B manufacturing businesses to establish themselves here.”

“We’re committed to building on our in providing a world class business environment for F&B companies and this event provides a major platform to showcase our business-friendly services and our capacity to support Dubai and the UAE’s economic diversification strategy.”

“The vision of our leadership to establish Dubai as the global Islamic economic capital provides a major boost to our economy by attracting foreign investment, especially those that are Halal food related. The Dubai Industrial Strategy also complements the competiveness of the food industry where local companies can partner global counterparts to increase exports. We are also focused on research and development in the industry to develop new products and commodities that will suit different tastes and attract consumers,” he added.