The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) is set to mark a historic milestone at Gulfood 2026, orchestrating the country's largest-scale participation to date at the world's premier food and beverage trade exhibition. Scheduled from 26th to 30th January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Expo City, the event will bring together thousands of global exhibitors and industry stakeholders from over 130 countries. This year, TDAP is facilitating an unprecedented 67 Pakistani companies across four specialized pavilions, covering Rice, Pulses & Grains, World Food, Beverages, and Meat & Poultry sectors. In addition to the official TDAP delegation, a significant number of Pakistani firms are participating independently, reinforcing the nation's robust and growing presence in the global marketplace.
Pakistani exhibitors will present a diverse and high-quality portfolio of agro-based and value-added products, ranging from premium Basmati rice, cereals, and meat to honey, pink salt, and horticultural produce. The showcase also includes processed and frozen foods, herbal products, spices, and dairy items. Beyond the trade floor, Pakistan will take center stage through several high-profile sideline activities, including the inauguration of the Pakistan Pavilion and dedicated media talks.
A major highlight of the five-day event is the Pakistan Biryani Festival, where visitors can experience the distinct aroma and superior quality of Pakistani rice firsthand. Furthermore, the "Taste of the World - Gulfood 2026 (Pakistan)" initiative will feature live masterclasses using authentic Pakistani ingredients to spotlight the country's rich culinary heritage and its expanding capabilities in the global HORECA sector. On the strategic front, TDAP will actively contribute to the global dialogue on food security through a panel discussion titled "Global Futuristic View and Smart Agri-Food Systems". During this session, Mr. Athar Hussain Khokhar, Director General (Agro & Food Division) of TDAP, will highlight Pakistan's agricultural strengths, the integration of artificial intelligence in food systems, and the critical impact of climate change on sustainability. To further strengthen bilateral economic ties, TDAP and the Trade Section of the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai will host a Pakistan-UAE Business Conference and a B2B Networking Dinner. This gathering will connect Pakistani exhibitors with international buyers and distributors to enhance export potential.
Throughout the event, TDAP will also promote its upcoming flagship exhibition, FoodAg 2026, as part of its continued commitment to positioning Pakistan as a reliable global supplier of premium food.
