Dairy sector set to enjoy Middle East export boost

Irish food and drink exports to the Middle East could double to €500m in the coming years, Bord Bia claimed during last week’s Irish trade mission to Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

Dairy products will continue to be the single strongest component in those export gains. In 2012, food and drink exports to the Middle East were valued at €275m, with the Gulf States (Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain) accounting for 70%, or €192m.

Dairy initiatives dominated the headlines throughout the mission. Significant initiatives included the €20m new soft cheese manufacturing facility to be developed by the Irish Dairy Board in Riyadh, along with Kerry Group’s investment in a technology and innovation centre in Dubai and Bord Bia’s opening of a new office in Dubai.