Abu Dhabi: SiltaNews – News Desk
ISM Middle East 2025, the region’s only trade event dedicated exclusively to the confectionery and snacks sector, kicked off today at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The exhibition will run until September 17. The current edition of the exhibition is witnessing significant international momentum, with international exhibitors accounting for 86% of the total participants, with more than 700 exhibitors from 66 countries in attendance, consolidating Dubai’s position as a leading global hub in this vital sector.
The event attracts the attention of major global brands and industry leaders, with representatives from prominent companies such as Carrefour, Dubai Duty Free, Dunkin’ Donuts, Emirates Airlines, and Marriott International in attendance.
This year’s edition features expanded international participation, hosting, for the first time, exhibitors from 11 countries, including Armenia, Australia, Costa Rica, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Luxembourg, Mexico, and Portugal, alongside leading companies in the field from China, Greece, India, Morocco, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.
The Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa regions currently top the list of the world’s fastest-growing markets for confectionery and snacks, given the growing demand for these products. Confectionery and snack sales in these markets are expected to reach nearly US$389.8 billion by the end of 2025, outpacing the growth rates of candy sales in both Europe and North America.