UAE minister confirms stable prices, sufficient supply during inspections

Dubai: The UAE is stepping up oversight of its food supply chain, with authorities closely monitoring production, stock levels and distribution networks to ensure stable access to essential goods across the country.

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, conducted field visits to major food producers, including Grand Mills and Abu Dhabi Vegetable Oil Company, to assess operational readiness and the strength of strategic reserves.

The move comes amid shifting global conditions that continue to test supply chains, prompting officials to focus on resilience, availability and price stability in local markets.

The ministry is maintaining close oversight of inventory across suppliers and retailers, with daily tracking systems and regular assessments in place to ensure that essential goods remain available.

“The UAE, under the guidance of its wise leadership, has developed advanced food security infrastructure based on global best practices, with local flour production playing a central role in meeting market demand and supporting strategic reserves,” Bin Touq said.

He added that coordination between government entities and private sector players allows for quick adjustments when conditions shift, helping maintain continuity across the supply chain.

In parallel, the Ministry is preparing additional measures to strengthen price monitoring and improve transparency, aimed at reinforcing consumer confidence during periods of uncertainty.

A key focus of the visits was the role of domestic manufacturing in supporting food security. The minister highlighted flour and vegetable oil production as critical components of the UAE’s supply system, both for local consumption and strategic reserves.

Bin Touq said food industries are emerging as an important driver of economic diversification, supported by advanced technologies and integrated logistics networks.

He added that national companies are expanding their footprint across regional and global markets, while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.

Facilities such as Abu Dhabi Vegetable Oil Company illustrate this scale. The plant operates with production capacity exceeding 200,000 metric tonnes annually and storage capacity above 40,000 metric tonnes, supporting efficient inventory management and continuous supply to markets.

The company distributes a wide range of cooking oil brands through a network that spans retail, hospitality and industrial sectors, both within the UAE and internationally.

Industry executives said strong coordination between the public and private sectors is central to maintaining supply stability.

Salmeen Al Ameri, Managing Director and CEO of Agthia Group, said Grand Mills continues to support stable supplies through efficient operations and resilient logistics systems.

Falal Ameen, CEO of Ghitha Holding, said, “The visit reflects the depth of strategic partnership between the public and private sectors and underscores their joint commitment to supporting and strengthening the UAE’s national food security system.”

He said ongoing global developments highlight the need for flexible supply chains that can adapt quickly to disruptions, supported by continued investment in local production capabilities.

The UAE’s food sector continues to expand, supported by growing trade volumes and strong domestic production.

Food trade reached Dh148.6 billion in 2024, marking a 16.8% increase compared to the previous year, while exports rose 10.9% to Dh24.2 billion.

These figures reflect the country’s position as a regional hub for food distribution, supported by advanced infrastructure and efficient logistics networks.

Economic clusters launched in recent years have placed food industries at the centre of national priorities, reinforcing the sector’s role in long-term growth and supply security.

The Ministry said it continues to monitor market developments closely, with inspection teams and support channels in place to address consumer concerns and maintain price stability.

The minister also reiterated that the UAE has a high level of preparedness to respond to different scenarios, ensuring uninterrupted access to essential goods.

Bin Touq said food security remains a national priority, with long-term strategies focused on building a system that can sustain supply under changing global conditions.

He added that continued investment in infrastructure, technology and partnerships will support the UAE’s position among the world’s leading food-secure nations, while ensuring that local markets remain stable and well supplied.