Middle East's first seafood exhibition held in Dubai

Malaysia, whose seafood exports to the Middle East reached Dh11.7 million last year due to government's development effort in the industry, is one of the participating countries. Its Department of Fisheries (DOF) has a 12-member delegation to the event.

"Malaysia recognises the promise that our seafood sector holds to establish our country as a major contributor and top source of high-quality seafood products in the global arena," said Mohamed Shaupi Derahman, director of planning, development and international division at DOF.

He said Malaysia aims to penetrate the Dh2-trillion global market for Halal food by producing, distributing and promoting its seafood products through this first seafood exhibition in Dubai.

Inaugurated by Rahman Al Janahi, director of Fisheries, UAE Ministry of Environment and Water, on Monday, the three-day Sea Food Expo 2007 being held at Dubai's Crowne Plaza Hotel ends today.

"With a large global participation, exhibitors will have a great opportunity to gain substantial contacts and broaden their network..." Al Janahi said during the opening ceremony.

He added that this network will help participants to establish business ties with the local seafood companies and those in other GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries.

The event showcases products and developments in technology, equipment and services from the regional and international markets. It has attracted 85 foreign exhibitors from Italy, Taiwan, the UK, China, India, the Philippines, Malaysia and Maldives, among others. Raees Ahmed, director of the seafood expo organiser Orange Fairs & Events, said the exhibition assists chefs, buyers, traders, importers and exporters in sourcing supplies of high-quality seafood products. Seven UAE companies have showcased in the event their advanced seafood processing techniques in cold storage systems and packaging equipment.