Afghan agriculture exporters featured at Gulfood 2020

KABUL (Agencies): Twenty-six exporters of Afghanistan’s finest fruits, nuts, juices, saffron, and spices are showcasing their products for international buyers at the world’s largest annual food and hospitality trade show—Gulfood Expo Dubai—from February 16 to 20, said a USAID press release.

“Expanding sales of Afghan products in these important export markets means better incomes for farm families, dignified jobs for Afghan women and men, and increased revenue for the government,” said USAID/Afghanistan Mission Director Peter Natiello. He added, “The US government, through USAID, remains committed to support Afghans in their quest for peace and prosperity.”

Women-owned businesses are among the Afgan vendors at the trade show, which will hopefully link up Afghan businesspeople with an international business hub.

“Thanks to USAID who linked us with importers from the UAE, South Asia, and Eastern Europe during Gulfood 2019, we signed contracts worth almost $4 million. Trade is one of several ways in which our country can prosper. USAID is helping us stand on our feet and harness those opportunities,” said AmanGul, Vice President of Afghan Moman Ltd.

Gulfood Expo covers a million square feet of exhibition space for 4,200 exhibitors and hosts over 98,000 trade visitors from 152 countries.

USAID-supported Afghan exporters have signed “millions of dollars in deals since 2011,” according to USAID. Last year, 27 traders generated more than “$113 million in signed and potential deals for fruits, nuts, and other agricultural products,” it said.