Core Insights - The Gulfood 2026, recognized as a pivotal event in the global food industry, will take place from January 26 to 30, 2026, featuring a historic upgrade with a dual venue model at the Dubai Exhibition Centre and Dubai World Trade Centre, showcasing over 8,500 exhibitors from 195 countries [1] Group 1: Focus on Supply Sources - The Rice, Pulses, and Grains section will feature a variety of staple crops including Basmati rice, jasmine rice, lentils, chickpeas, and quinoa, highlighting global diversity and stable supply capabilities [3] - The Meat and Poultry section will cover all categories including beef, lamb, and poultry, gathering reliable bulk suppliers and professional exporters [3] - The Dairy section will present products from 60 countries, ranging from traditional cheeses to high-performance dairy ingredients [3] - The Fats and Oils section will showcase functional fats, sustainable alternatives, and customized fats, essential for the manufacturing industry [3] Group 2: Brands and Distribution - The Power Brands section will present leading brands and high-value products from the global food and beverage industry across the North Halls and Halls 1-8 of the Dubai World Trade Centre [6] - The Logistics and Grocery Trade sections will be co-located, featuring shipping companies, cold chain, warehousing, and packaging solutions, serving as a trade hub for grocery products [6] Group 3: Future Innovations - The Gulfood Fresh section will create a new market with growers and exporters, ensuring high-quality supply and year-round stability in the fresh food sector [9] - The Beverages section will offer a diverse range of drinks, including functional, craft, and health beverages, with a dedicated area for hot drinks [9] - The Startups & Tech section will gather over 250 startups and 150 investment firms, focusing on disruptive technologies such as AI, biotechnology, and precision fermentation, shaping the future of the food industry [9] Group 4: Early Bird Offers - Early bird tickets for Gulfood 2026 are now available, offering a 35% discount for online registration before the event, with a ticket price of 450 AED for access to both venues over five days [10] Group 5: Event Logistics - Most international travelers will arrive via Dubai International Airport, located approximately 15 minutes from the Dubai World Trade Centre, with efficient transportation plans in place to connect the two venues [12][14] - The Dubai Metro will enhance service during peak hours, and a rapid bus network will operate between the two venues to ensure smooth transportation for attendees [12][14] Group 6: Industry Insights - Gulfood 2026 will serve as a platform for deep dialogue and structural innovation in the global food industry, with Blooming Trade Data sharing insights on global trade flows and market signals to empower business decisions [15]

Core Viewpoint - Mitsui Chemicals has invested in the UK-based startup Hoxton Farms through its 321FORCE™ global innovation fund, focusing on cell-cultured fat production to create healthier and customizable food options [1][2]. Group 1: Company Overview - Hoxton Farms combines molecular biology, mathematical modeling, and machine learning to produce cell-cultured fat, branded as Hoxton Fat, which aims to lower production costs and risks [1]. - The company is collaborating with Sumitomo Corporation to promote Hoxton Fat in Japan and the Asia-Pacific market, integrating it into various food products [2]. Group 2: Market Context - The demand for meat in Asia is projected to increase by 78% by 2050, driven by rising incomes, urbanization, and population growth, leading to a significant rise in obesity and related healthcare costs [3]. - Over 40% of adults in the Asia-Pacific region are overweight or obese, with healthcare expenditures related to obesity accounting for 12% of total medical costs [3]. Group 3: Industry Trends - Precision fermentation technology is redefining the boundaries of functional foods, with a growing number of companies entering the field [5]. - Key future issues in the industry will include transitioning from technology development to large-scale commercialization and regulatory safety systems, while meeting consumer demands for health and sustainability [5].