Continued growth within the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region, coupled by a strong interest among U.S. confectionery manufacturers to showcase their products, has resulted in Koelnmesse Inc. offering a USA Pavilion at the upcoming Sweets & Snacks Middle East.

Organized by Koelnmesse in conjunction with the Dubai World Trade Centre, Sweets & Snacks Middle East will be held November 9-11, 2014 in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Last year the show generated 180 exhibitors from 32 countries who met with 6,300 trade visitors from 75 countries. The USA Pavilion is endorsed by the NCA (National Confectioners Association) and member companies will have access to reduced rates in the pavilion.

Some of the major confectionery players that have committed to the event include the following: Roshen (Ukraine), Duc D’O (Belgium), Original Candy (UK), Confetti Crispo (Italy), Bodeta (Germany) and Candelite (UAE.)

In addition, there will be various national pavilions from Belgium, Brazil, China, Germany, Greece, Malaysia and Turkey as well as the United States.

Sweets & Snacks Middle East is the only specialized trade fair for confectionery and snack items in the entire MENA region. The attendees are senior buyers from chain stores, hotels, resorts, catering as well as importers, wholesalers and distributors. With a projected annual growth rate of 20 percent for confectionery in the region, MENA provides strong future opportunities for U.S. exporters.  

Moreover, U.S. companies might qualify for grants via MAP, the Market Access Program. Inquiries on criteria and eligibility should be directed to Karen Horan, the NCA’s senior director of international business development at (202) 534-1440 or karen.horan@candyusa.com.

For specifics about MAP, visit the NCA website.

For information on exhibiting in the USA Pavilion at Sweets & Snacks Middle East, contact Franz Balve, Koelnmesse Inc. at (732) 933-1117 or f.balve@koelnmessenafta.com.

Candy Industry Magazine is a media partner with Koelnmesse Inc. for the Sweets & Snacks Middle East show.