GCC food imports to double by 2020

LIFESTYLE changes in the GCC have an impact on the food choices consumers make. As with other regions in the world, consumers in the UAE and other Arab nations are living busier lives, and one of the marked differences from several years ago is the growing number of women with regular jobs today. These trends, as market research firms note, boost demand for on-the-go foods, fast food, restaurant food, and beverages.

According to a MEED report, the GCC will double its food imports by 2020, to reach $53.1 billion. Imports of frozen products are significantly growing.

The Middle East and North Africa region is meanwhile importing more fresh produce. The report mentions that Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait and Egypt together account for 2% of global fresh produce imports.