Information
Erbil Agro Food 2008, november 04 - November 07. The International Exhibition for Agriculture, Food, Food Processing and Packaging in Erbil
Massive Investment in Iraq´s Agricultural Sector
Agriculture is Iraq´s second-largest industry after oil, worth some 29% of its GDP, and is the country´s largest employer [around 20% of the labor force]. It supports an estimated 27% of Iraq´s 28 million people; add in auxiliary services, such as banking and capital investment, and this sector´s potential growth and impact on Iraqis could outstrip oil proceeds for years to come. It has also been noted that Iraq possesses some of the most fertile land in the region, with 27% of the land suitable for cultivation and over half of this enjoying plentiful rainfall. However, years of underinvestment and neglect of the agricultural industry have greatly affected Iraq´s ability to provide food for its population, and for export. This is set to change. A large-scale investment program incorporating international governments, aid agencies and private companies is underway. Lucrative investment opportunities are opening up for local and international companies alike.
Potential-laden Agro-Sector Offers Opportunities for All
Billions of dollars are being invested in the agro-industry, agro-biology and water technology sectors across the region. The revival of a dynamic, market-driven agricultural sector will strengthen private business, increase employment opportunities and help the government meet the food requirements of the Iraqi people. Strong demand for machinery, spare parts and local knowledge and expertise is creating exciting opportunities for local companies and the chance for international companies to gain a foothold in a fast-developing sector.
Agriculture Sector in Need of Modernization, Expansion and International Expertise
As Iraq´s agriculture sector is developed, new equipment – along with international knowledge and skills - will be in strong demand. Expertise in poultry and dairy farming, livestock rearing and crop production will be sought after. Key skills will be needed in horticulture, water irrigation and technology management. Agricultural machinery, monitoring equipment, filtration services, sewage treatment, recycling technology, pollution clean-up and waste-handling equipment will be required. And as the agriculture industry recovers and expands, there will be opportunities for the food, beverages, food packaging, storage and distribution industries too.
Erbil Agro – Food 2008 Organized in Collaboration with Inma Agribusiness Program
The Inma Agribusiness Program entails much more than growing food; it involves re-cultivating a business model that invests in agriculture, Iraq´s most important sector after oil. Agriculture and agribusiness support an estimated 27% of Iraq´s 28 million people.
Inma is expanding market-driven agribusiness by assisting private enterprises involved in inter-connected value chains of agricultural products and services. Focusing simultaneously on individuals, entrepreneurs, producers, associations, farmer-owned businesses and traders´ associations, enables Inma to rapidly and radically impact Iraq´s economy.
Inma invites all Iraqis and welcomes agribusiness professionals from the Middle East region and from around the world to “Erbil Agro Food Expo 2008.”
Erbil: An Ideal Location for a Regionally-Prominent Agro-Exhibition
Situated in Northern Iraq, in the region of Kurdistan, Erbil is an ideal gateway for businesses looking to trade in Iraq. There are good transport links, with new airports opening in both Erbil and nearby Suleymaniya, as well as improved road access from Turkey. Kurdistan also enjoys comparative security compared to other parts of Iraq, making it an attractive logistical hub for international companies. Coupled with Kurdistan´s liberal investment laws and investor-friendly environment, this makes Northern Iraq an ideal base for businesses looking to invest and establish a foothold in the country.
A Unique Opportunity for International Agriculture and Food Experts to Meet Buyers, Traders & Distributors
Erbil Agro-Food Expo 2008 will give you the opportunity to present your equipment, knowledge and expertise to tens of thousands of trade visitors. Industry experts, traders and businessmen from Kurdistan will be able to mingle with local and international buyers, fellow-investors, distributors and suppliers, and gain unparalleled exposure for their new cutting-edge products. Now is the time to take advantage of this developing market. Now is the time to exhibit at Erbil Agro-Food Expo 2008.