CITEM Joins Private Label Middle East 2025

Philippine food exhibitors are poised to elevate the country's private labeling competitiveness in the international market. They will join the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) at the Market Sensing Mission with inaugural trade participation in Private Label Middle East (PLME) 2025, from September 15-17, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). This marks CITEM's first concrete step toward establishing a strong market presence in global private label food exhibitions.

The global private label market has experienced significant growth, driven by consumer demand for value, brand trust, and quick adaptation to new market trends. CITEM is optimistic about securing a share of the burgeoning food and beverage sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—saw its private label market valued at US$6.5 billion in 2023. Food retail sales in the GCC are projected to reach US$216 billion by 2026.

The UAE, which accounts for one-third of the GCC market share, is home to major retailers such as Carrefour, Lulu, and Spinneys. Its expatriate population, representing over 80% of residents, fuels demand for ethnic-specific, organic, and private label products. This demand, particularly from the UAE and Saudi Arabia, contributed to Philippine exports exceeding US$100 million in 2023. The Middle East was also the leading buyer group at IFEX Philippines 2025.

CITEM aims to build on this export momentum by organizing this trade mission for select Philippine food manufacturers. By participating in PLME 2025, these companies can expand their market presence through strategic networking and showcasing their offerings, potentially opening doors for new food export players from the Philippines. This year’s participation is in close coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry’s Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Dubai (PTIC-Dubai). The participating exhibitors will showcase their products and services under the FOODPhilippines brand, a CITEM initiative designed to enhance the global visibility and market access of local SMEs.

For a firsthand experience of their products, visit the next IFEX Philippines on May 21-23, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City, Philippines.