Madrid, January 30, 2026 – The Community of Madrid has significantly enhanced the international profile of its agri-food sector at Gulfood 2026, the premier global gastronomy fair. Under the coordination of the General Directorate of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food, eight companies from Madrid attended the event in Dubai, which is considered a crucial gateway to markets in South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
Madrid’s Quality Products on a Global Stage
The participating companies are distinguished by their commitment to differentiated quality. These include Sabores Sierra de Madrid, Casa Santoña, Aperitivos La Madrileña, and Marqués de Mendiola, all recognized by the ‘M Producto Certificado’ quality seal. Additionally, Solobuey, Intervan, Sertina, and Meat Lamb were also present. All these businesses are members of the Business Association of Food Industries of the Community of Madrid (ASEACAM) and the Agri-Food Cluster (Madrifood).
These companies represent a broad spectrum of sub-sectors, including artisanal cured meats, seafood derivatives, meat products, cheeses, confectionery, high-end dishes, and snacks. Several of their products also hold Halal certification, attesting to their compliance with Islamic regulations.
Strategic Initiative for International Expansion
This initiative is part of the regional government’s strategy to support the external projection of Madrid’s food products. Its primary objective is to improve the competitiveness, innovation, and positioning of regional products, thereby opening new business opportunities in high-potential markets. In this context, Dubai serves as a vital entry point, not only to the United Arab Emirates but also to the entire Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), as well as Africa and Southeast Asia.
Key Benefits for Madrid’s Agri-Food Companies
- Enhanced Competitiveness: By showcasing products on an international platform, Madrid’s companies gain exposure and can better compete with global brands.
- Innovation Promotion: Participation encourages companies to innovate and adapt their products to meet international demand and consumer preferences.
- Market Diversification: Access to new markets reduces reliance on domestic sales and creates more resilient business models.
- Brand Recognition: The ‘M Producto Certificado’ seal and other quality assurances help build trust and recognition for Madrid’s food products abroad.
The Community of Madrid’s presence at Gulfood 2026 underscores its commitment to fostering economic growth and supporting local businesses in reaching a wider audience. This strategic move is expected to yield significant returns for the region’s agri-food sector, solidifying its reputation for quality and innovation on the global stage.
The event itself, Gulfood 2026, is renowned for attracting a vast network of international buyers, distributors, and industry professionals, providing an unparalleled platform for networking and business development. The Madrid delegation engaged in numerous meetings and discussions, exploring potential partnerships and export agreements that could further boost the region’s economy.
The success of this participation is a testament to the quality and diversity of Madrid’s agri-food offerings, from traditional delicacies to modern culinary innovations. The regional government plans to continue these efforts, with future initiatives aimed at expanding the reach of Madrid’s products into even more international markets.
