Australia served up an irresistible display for Gulf and international buyers at Gulfood 2026, the world’s biggest food and beverage show. This year’s event in Dubai attracted more than 8,500 exhibitors from around the world.
Held from 26–30 January, Gulfood unfolded across 2 venues for the first time. Backed by the momentum from the Australia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), Australia had its strongest national presence yet, with more than 100 companies exhibiting in 2026.
Australia’s presence was further elevated by the presence of the Minster for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon. Don Farrell. His attendance reinforced the strength of the Australia-UAE trade relationship and the growing confidence in Australia as a reliable partner for premium, safe, and high-quality food and beverage products across the UAE and the Gulf region.
Australia’s expanded presence at Gulfood was supported by the Accessing New Markets Initiative (ANMI), a $50 million program helping Australian businesses diversify and grow their exports. ANMI is designed and jointly delivered by Austrade and industry.
The Minister for Trade and Tourism Senator the Hon. Don Farrell meets Australian exhibitors at Gulfood 2026.
Plating up premium products
A total of 43 companies joined the Team Australia pavilion to present a diverse range of products, including premium halal-certified red meat, dairy, seafood, health foods, beverages, and packaged goods. The pavilion brought together a diverse mix of market veterans, entrants and explorers, including:
This year, South Australia had its own section within the pavilion with 14 South Australian producers showcasing their premium products, including market-established The Yoghurt Shop and Bickford's.
Austrade facilitated introductions to key regional buyers and distributors and hosted more than 300 business-matching sessions at the national pavilion. These sessions generated over 100 qualified leads with strong interest from the UAE and other international markets.
‘Gulfood was not only an opportunity to experience the region, but to be introduced to the world, with genuine engagement from buyers and partners across every continent,’ says Michael Rizzo, National Sales Director, Altimate Foods. ‘It was very clear to us there is strong demand for Australian products, which were described to us as safe, clean and premium.
‘Being on the ground allowed us to provide samples and move beyond initial conversations, gaining valuable insights into localisation and market needs. This knowledge will be critical as we move forward with confidence.’
Fresh opportunities in the market
CEPA has opened access to the UAE and the wider Gulf region. When CEPA entered into force last year, the trade agreement eliminated 99% of tariffs on agricultural products. This has reduced costs and improved price competitiveness for Australian food exporters, positioning Australian products favourably with key partners and distributors.
‘CEPA has given Australian exporters a competitive advantage on the trade show floor in discussions with buyers, distributors, and potential partners with tariff-free entry now in force,’ says Bryony Hilless, Austrade General Manager for the Middle East, Africa and Pakistan.
The demand for Australian products continues to be driven by strong food safety, traceable credentials, and a rising demand for premium products and high-quality ingredients.
For many companies, Gulfood marked their debut in the market. Sydney-born Posca Hydrate secured strong buyer interest and new distribution leads. ‘We have made unprecedented contacts with major suppliers; the interest level has been enormous,’ says Co-founder Merrick Watts. ‘It has been much greater than we expected, and has surpassed all of our greatest hopes.’
Australian meat was a standout at Gulfood 2026, with 37 companies exhibiting at the Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) stand, reflecting the rising demand for Australia’s premium, halal-certified beef and lamb. MLA is a member of the Trade Diversification Network, comprising 40 national peak industry bodies working with government to help exporters diversify and expand into new markets.
‘This year was naturally different now that Australia’s CEPA with the UAE is in place,’ says Gerard Meyn, Managing Director of Stella Foods.
MLA’s presence followed a record high year of exports to the Middle East and North Africa.
‘The UAE provides good access to the region and allows us to simultaneously focus on regional markets like Saudi Arabia and Qatar where there are clear opportunities and a growing food-focused demand for quality Australian products,’ Meyn adds.
First Nations exporters in focus
Australia’s Ambassador for First Nations People, Mr Justin Mohamed, led a business delegation with members from the pilot First Nations Trade and Investment Advisory Group.
The Minister for Trade and Tourism Senator the Hon. Don Farrell and First Nations People Ambassador Mr Justin Mohamed launch the First Nations Capability Catalogue at the MLA stand.
CEPA is Australia’s first-ever FTA to include a chapter promoting First Nations trade and investment. During the event, Mr Mohamed launched the Australian First Nations Capability Catalogue for the UAE. The catalogue showcases 37 First Nations businesses ready to export premium, sustainable, and culturally grounded goods to the UAE.
How Austrade can help
Australian companies looking to expand to the UAE can connect with Austrade to explore market pathways, understand regulatory settings and identify the right commercial partners.
For more information about opportunities in the UAE, visit Austrade’s Go Global Toolkit trade agreement opportunities in the UAE webpage or contact Austrade.
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