Business

Gulfood 2026 has announced the launch of Gulfood Logistics, a new dedicated sector that underscores the growing strategic importance of logistics and supply chains in driving the global food economy. The new platform will debut at the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai as part of the upcoming edition of the world’s largest annual food and beverage sourcing event.

The launch comes at a time when the global logistics and transportation market is projected to expand from USD 9.4 trillion in 2024 to USD 23 trillion by 2035, reflecting an estimated compound annual growth rate of 8.4 percent. As global food systems become increasingly interconnected, logistics efficiency has emerged as a critical factor shaping trade flows, food security, supply reliability and consumer access.

Gulfood 2026 places a strong spotlight on logistics networks, cold-chain infrastructure and freight innovation that underpin the global movement of food. With an estimated 70 to 90 percent of global trade value transported by sea, the ability to move food safely, quickly and sustainably has become a strategic economic lever influencing global GDP and cross-border cooperation.

Gulfood Logistics will showcase how collaboration between nations, logistics providers and food industry stakeholders ensures the seamless movement of perishables across continents. The platform will highlight technologies, infrastructure and partnerships that enable fresh and frozen food to reach markets without compromise, connecting producers, processors, retailers and consumers worldwide.

Anchored by Dubai’s role as a global trade crossroads linking Europe, Asia and Africa, the UAE has emerged as the Middle East’s largest logistics hub. The sector accounts for around 30 percent of total GCC logistics activity and contributes approximately 8 percent to the UAE’s national GDP, reinforcing Dubai’s central position in global supply chain connectivity and economic diversification.

Mohammed Hamdan, UAE Area Head of Sales at Maersk, said the company is proud to exhibit at Gulfood for the first time. He noted that Maersk will engage with partners across IMEA and Europe to showcase strategies for building resilient, adaptive supply chains from farm to fork, including cold-chain expertise and integrated logistics solutions designed for today’s complex operating environment.

Global logistics leaders to convene in Dubai

Gulfood Logistics will bring together leading logistics providers, cold-chain specialists and global freight operators alongside food producers, importers, exporters and distributors. Visitors will explore solutions covering temperature-controlled transport, smart warehousing, real-time cargo tracking and optimised cross-border freight operations.

Major industry players confirmed for the exhibition floor include Akkon Lines, Africa Global Logistics, DP World, Dubai South, Kezad Group, Maersk, Mohebi Logistics, MSC Shipping, Silo Group and Ship Smart. These companies will demonstrate how advanced infrastructure and integrated global networks support the precise and reliable movement of food products.

Thought leadership driving trade expansion

In addition to the exhibition, Gulfood 2026 will feature a comprehensive thought leadership programme focused on food logistics. Sessions will address key trends such as cold-chain optimisation, last-mile delivery, regulatory compliance, sustainability initiatives and the digital transformation of supply networks.

By convening logistics innovators with food industry stakeholders and investors, Gulfood Logistics aims to provide deeper insight into how supply chains are evolving and the pivotal role logistics plays in food security, quality assurance and global trade expansion.

• Tags
• #Business
• #Magazine
• #Lifestyle