WUWM Abu Dhabi 2022 will bring together key stakeholders to discuss the mechanisms required to secure global food supplies.
The World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM)Conference 2022, which will be held in the Middle East for the first time in October, offers an important opportunity to reshape global food systems, according to organizers and attendees.
As the world’s largest network of wholesale markets, WUWM represents the industry’s most significant suppliers of fresh food. Attendees at the conference are set to include leading fresh food producers, wholesale markets, retailers, fresh food logistics companies, air and maritime freight providers as well as local, national and regional government representatives and policymakers and food systems experts.
Stephane Layani, WUWM Chairman, said “WUWM is committed to tackling food insecurity and preventing food crises around the world. This conference will offer a vital opportunity to identify risks and anticipate future challenges for maintaining food supplies. Sharing innovations, best practices and new approaches will enable us to mitigate the impact of the current crisis and avoid future disruption to food supply chains.”
As part of the national Food Security Strategy, the UAE aims to become the most secure nation in the Global Food Security Index by 2051, using modern technologies and enhanced local production to ensure the sustainable production of fresh food.
In February 2022, AD Ports Group announced the launch of the ‘Regional Food Hub –Abu Dhabi’ in partnership with Ghassan Aboud Group and in collaboration with Rungis. The hub will cover a total land area of 3.3 million sqm and feature market areas, complementary activity zones, industrial cold storage, logistics, waste management and water treatment amenities.
According to experts attending the conference, the resource intensity of food production is a key challenge for global food supply chains, with food production requiring high levels of water and energy. Shifting to alternative energy sources and reducing water wastage are key opportunities for the industry, although this significant transformation will require careful management to avoid increased costs leading to increased food prices. Other topics under the microscope of WUWM Abu Dhabi 2022 include food security, supply chains, digitalisation, and the role of food hubs.
WUWM Abu Dhabi 2022 will take place on 19-20 October 2022 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
