The Middle East Natural and Organic Products Expo (Menope), the region’s niche expo for organic and natural products, was officially inaugurated today by assistant undersecretary, Sultan Abdullah Alwan, Ministry of Environment & Water in Dubai, UAE.

Menope 2015 will run from November 2 to 4 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC).

“Organic farming received wide attention as a result of increased health and environmental concerns caused mainly by excessive use of pesticides in the agricultural sector. The organic agricultural sector continued to grow at the global level, especially in the last two decades at a rapid pace,” Alwan said.

Menope 2015 also will hold on the sidelines the `First Emirates Conference on Organic Agriculture and Sustainable Products for two days – a first-of-its-kind knowledge forum where experts will present papers and discuss critical issues concerning organic agriculture and sustainability.

“This conference, which is the beginning of a series of annual conferences, is an important step in our efforts to expand the circle of interest in organic farming through the definition of the economic and environmental benefits, and attract more private investment in the sector. The ministry is keen on ensuring the provision of appropriate incentives to strengthen its partnership with the private sector to develop the organic farming sector, which is expected to grow,” Alwan said.

The conference will share information on the approach of the Ministry of Environment and Water to develop the UAE’s organic farming sector, standardisation in organic and related products, consumer perceptions towards  organic products, and organic certification, to name a few.

Menope, which is in its 13th edition this year, has attracted over 125 companies from more than 26 countries across the world and is sponsored by the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water.

The event will see many regional and international government organisations, including Dubai Municipality; Department of Agriculture, Philippines; Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry, Malaysia; and Ministry of Ayush, India in attendance.

“The expo is a chance to review the innovative solutions and technology used in productions while taking into consideration the natural resources and protection of the environment,” said Eng Nadim Al Fuqaha, managing director Global Links, organisers of the expo.

Menope 2015 will showcase a variety of products spanning across Natural Remedies, Pharma, Health, Nutritional products and Dietary supplements, Beauty & Personal Care Products, Food & Beverage, Herbs & Spices, and Relaxation products, among others. – TradeArabia News Service