This past week, Cape Town earned the privilege of being the first African city to host the inaugural Africa Food Show.
The event was a three-day exhibition held from 10 to 12 June, taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
Here, more than 350 exhibitors from across the country and 25 countries from other parts of the world showcased their delectable cuisines and other products in front of investors and potential collaborators to tap into the global food market.
According to the African Development Bank, the African food and beverage market is expected to reach US$1 trillion (R17 trillion) by 2030.
Speaking more on the event was Joshua Low, Vice President of dmg events South Africa, who mentioned that the Africa Food Show would highlight the untapped potential of the continent and help businesses discover the myriad opportunities that exist in the local and international F&B sector.
“By highlighting trends and challenges, the event will help provide a roadmap to elevate Africa’s offerings to the global stage.”
Food was not the only thing that kept tongues wagging as those in attendance also gained valuable insight into the food and beverage sector.
Day one started with a keynote address from Honourable Ivan Meyer, a minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism.
During his address, the minister touched on the important role that the agricultural sector plays in contributing to food security.
“Agriculture support is the foundation of the event that we are attending, which is the Africa Food Summit. Everything comes from farms.”
With South Africa exporting 66% of our products to foreign markets, he mentioned that agricultural and economic support, and market access, are an essential part in ensuring that we thrive.
Meanwhile, guests were also informed on multiple topics such as navigating the tariffs tantrums, designing nutritious foods without a premium, and climate-centric innovations, which were all presented by expert panellists.
Also see: Treat your tastebuds at Cape Town’s most prominent seafood restaurants
