Taiwan Shines at Gulfood 2024 with Premier Halal Culinary Innovations

This week, the Dubai World Trade Centre in the United Arab Emirates becomes the bustling hub of international culinary exchange as it hosts Gulfood 2024. Among the global participants, Taiwan stands out with a significant presence. 15 Taiwanese food manufacturers have gathered under the auspices of the Taiwan Pavilion, a concerted effort by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and the Kaohsiung City Farmers’ Association. Their mission? To showcase a range of halal-certified foods and beverages, highlighting Taiwan’s commitment to catering to the diverse needs of the global market.

The offerings from Taiwan are as diverse as they are rich in flavor, spanning from aromatic coffees and refreshing juices to savory snacks and meticulously processed agricultural products. This culinary showcase is not just about taste; it’s a strategic move by TAITRA to forge deeper connections with the predominantly Muslim consumer base in the Middle East and Northern Africa. The emphasis on halal certification underscores Taiwan’s dedication to meeting the dietary standards and cultural sensitivities of these regions.

Among the Taiwanese contingent, seasoned exporters familiar with the Middle Eastern and North African markets stand alongside newcomers like Mayushan Foods Co., Ltd. This Kaohsiung-based enterprise, specializing in rice bran and roasted wheat flour, is making its debut at Gulfood 2024, eager to introduce its products to a new audience.

The leadership baton for the Taiwanese delegation is held by Wu Yo-ting, a specialist with TAITRA’s Dakwah Halal Foundation Taiwan. This foundation, established by the Taiwanese government in 2017 and entrusted to TAITRA, underscores Taiwan’s strategic approach to embracing the halal market. Its aim is to equip Taiwanese manufacturers with the knowledge and certification necessary to appeal to Muslim consumers worldwide, a market that continues to show promising growth for Taiwanese exporters.

This focus on the halal market is not without merit. Chai Chieh-hsiu, an official with the Commercial Office of Taipei in Dubai, shared uplifting statistics on Tuesday: Taiwan’s agricultural product exports to the UAE surged by 51% in 2023, reaching a total of US$16.2 million. This uptick is a testament to the growing appetite for Taiwanese products in the region.

Gulfood 2024 is not just a food show; it’s a global confluence of culinary innovation, with more than 5,500 food companies from nearly 200 countries participating. As the event unfolds until February 23, it offers a unique window into the world’s diverse foodscapes, with Taiwan playing a pivotal role in bridging cultures through the universal language of food.