UAE Boosting Investments in Agrifood Sector Abroad: Mariam Almheiri

UAE's National Food Security Strategy has laid a strong foundation to enable the nation deal with food crises and emergencies.

Besides, the strategic diplomatic relations of UAE have played a major role in stabilizing the country’s food security during the COVID-19 pandemic, Minister for Climate Change and Environment, H.E. Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri said.

Her Excellency was addressing a gathering at the World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

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H.E. said: "In the UAE, we realized the importance of supporting the creation of sustainable food supply chains and boosting international trade in agrifood products early on.

"WUWM Conference comes at a challenging time for global food security that is under pressure due to climate change, population growth, urbanization, geopolitical issues."

"We are keen to establish productive partnerships with other governments and key stakeholders abroad to build a sustainable and efficient supply chain that is proactive in tackling any arising or potential challenges." H.E. continued.

She further added: "We are currently expanding our investment presence in the agrifood sector abroad. We also seek to strengthen our trade relations and align our processes to streamline the flow of food products between the UAE and other countries.

"Our advanced logistics infrastructure, including world-class airports and seaports, has turned the UAE into a food trade hub, with billions of dollars’ worth of food passing through our borders annually."

The UAE offers a host of advantages for foreign companies seeking to set up business or expand their footprint into new markets, she said. "Our country provides a nurturing business environment and low operational costs, and has a progressive, forward-looking, and business-oriented government."

H.E Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri then pointed out: "If we don’t address the current situation urgently, high commodity prices, disruptions in fertilizer access, and missed planting seasons will further undermine the already fragile global food security landscape."

"Forging meaningful partnerships across the food supply chain is the need of the hour to solve the global food crisis and prevent further hunger."

"And given the opportunities here today, I hope that we all leverage this platform to confront these challenges and work together to develop a resilient and sustainable global food system," she concluded.

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