The UAE-based company – LuLu Group International – is interested in introducing Georgian products into the retail chain, EastFruit reports with reference to the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia.
Minister of Agriculture Otar Shamugia met with representatives of one of the largest trading companies in the United Arab Emirates, LuLu Group International. At the meeting, the parties discussed the export of agri-food products produced in Georgia and their placement in the company’s trading network. As the minister noted, some Georgian goods are already being sold at several facilities of the LuLu Group trading network.
“With the support of the Georgian government and the implementation of relevant state projects, the country’s local production, storage, and processing capacities are increasing year by year, enhancing the export potential of Georgian quality and competitive products. We are continuously working to diversify the market and promote Georgian products globally.
Georgian products are displayed at all important international exhibitions with the state’s assistance. Placing products in the LuLu Group’s trade network is an excellent opportunity for local entrepreneurs to improve exports while promoting Georgian products. We will do our best to help entrepreneurs and increase Georgian product exports,” Mr. Otar Shamugia stated.
The Director of LuLu Group International, Mr. Salim M.A., noted that interest in Georgian agricultural products is growing; therefore, the company intends to increase imports from Georgia.
“LuLu Group operates in 23 countries around the world (Gulf, Middle East, Asia, America, and Europe), where it owns the LuLu retail chain (248 hypermarkets and 24 shopping centers) and distribution companies. The annual turnover of the company is USD 9 billion. We want Georgian fruits, vegetables, dry fruits, nuts, lamb, and other products to be represented in our trade network”, said Salim M. A and expressed his readiness to meet the producers and negotiate for future cooperation.
As mentioned, phyto and veterinary certificates are issued in Georgia in compliance with international standards. Everything is done in the country to ensure the manufactured products are high quality and meet the criteria.
The meeting was attended by Mr. Tengiz Nasaridze, Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Zurab Chekurashvili, Head of the National Food Agency, Mr. Giorgi Jibladze, Deputy Director of the Rural Development Agency, and representatives of LuLu Group International’s partner Georgian company “Agrolane.”
LuLu Group International is the largest trading company in the United Arab Emirates. The company includes retail trade/commerce, hypermarkets, shopping center management, product manufacture and processing, wholesale distribution, hotels, and real estate development. LuLu Group International employs around 60,000 people in total.
For more information: east-fruit.com