MUSCAT : Acknowledging the multifaceted prospects prevalent in the thriving food and hospitality industry locally, the Sultanate of Oman has been placing increased emphasis on creating fertile grounds for invaluable networking and collaboration opportunities in the field. In consonance with this vision, the 16^th edition of the Food and Hospitality Oman (FHO) commenced, setting the stage for three days of innovation, collaboration, networking, and knowledge sharing

The event was inaugurated by H.E. Dr. Saud bin Hamood bin Ahmed Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries Wealth and Water Resources of Oman, amongst the presence of distinguished representatives from the ministry and prominent figures from the industry. FHO is being held under the esteemed patronage of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries Wealth, and Water Resources, reaffirming its significance in the realm of Oman’s food and hospitality landscape. The event further enjoys the partnership of renowned entities, with Oman Air Catering as the Host Organization and A’Saffa Foods SAOG as the Poultry Sponsor.

Revered as one of the Sultanate’s premier trade exhibitions, FHO is organised by CONNECT (Oman Exhibitions Organizing Company LLC) and is taking place in Hall 4 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC). Set to run until 20 September 2023, from 10 AM to 7 PM daily, the exhibition features local, regional, and international exhibitors from 13 participating countries.

Highlighting the significance of the event, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries Wealth, and Water Resources, in a statement said, “We are pleased to welcome you to Food and Hospitality Oman 2023. The event aims to enhance the participation of the private sector in developing the local economy. It is also an opportunity for small and medium enterprises to view closely the modern technologies and global brands, and gain more experiences and insights in the sector. The Ministry and the organizers invite all to take advantage of this opportunity and to learn about new companies and brands in one place with ease, and to establish relationships and business deals.”

Following the inauguration ceremony, the dignitaries were given an extensive tour of the exhibition to offer them firsthand insights into the vibrant food and hospitality industry. Celebrating global participation, FHO brings together companies from diverse corners of the world, with representatives from Bangladesh, Belgium, China, India, Iran, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, and the UAE.

Designed to promote the latest offerings across various sectors such as food and beverage, agriculture, fisheries, food processing technologies, kitchen and catering equipment, hotel supplies, and restaurant and cafe solutions, FHO provides professionals in the industry with an unparalleled platform to expand their connections, explore products, and gain insights into the latest trends in the sector. In alignment with Oman Vision 2040, the event is also strategically poised to stimulate economic growth, promote cultural exchange, and provide opportunities for collaboration within the food, hospitality and tourism sectors.

In addition to the diverse array of offerings at FHO, attendees can also benefit from the free-to-attend FHO Knowledge Hub which features a series of seminars and conference programs intended to delve into the opportunities and challenges of the Omani hospitality industry. The conference commenced with a keen focus on the dynamic landscape of Oman’s food industry with keynote presentations covering sustainability in agriculture and food production, the transformative role of data analytics in shaping customer service efficiency, and ways to achieve food security, healthy nutrition, and a sustainable environment. Day 2 will delve into sustaining growth and innovation in SMEs and best practices for enhancing customer experience. In addition, culinary masterminds are set to share the secrets behind world-class chef creations, emphasizing culinary innovation.

On the final day, the agenda will take on a more focused and forward-looking approach with panel discussions exploring how cutting-edge technology is reshaping food retail, the advantages and hurdles of incorporating technology-driven solutions within grocery stores, and the importance of adopting sustainable food practices.

FHO is free to attend and open to all. To know more, visit https://bit.ly/44AoRi9