Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (Kezad), the largest operator of integrated and purpose-built economic zones and Bisconni Middle East Manufacturing today (February 25) announced the signing of a 50-year land lease agreement for the establishment of its manufacturing facility in Kezada Al Ma’mourah (KEZAD A).

 

Bisconni is a part of Ismail Industries, Pakistan’s largest confectionery, biscuits and snack food manufacturer. In recent years, it has been steadfast in its focus on innovation and expansion. 

 

Driven by plans to expand its international footprint, Bisconni is investing AED110 million ($30 million) to set up its 37,000 sq m facility in Kezad that will manufacture biscuits and confectionery products, said Kezad in a statement.

 

The food processing sector is of strategic interest to Abu Dhabi and Kezad is focused on the growth of this industry to attain the emirate’s food security and sustainability objectives. And Bisconni’s new factory is a step forward in this direction, it added.

 

Welcoming Bisconni into Abu Dhabi, Kezad Group CEO Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed said this partnership marks a significant milestone in strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional hub for the food and confectionery industry. 

 

"With Bisconni’s expansion into Kezad, we look forward to supporting their growth and innovation while contributing to the diversification of the UAE’s economy," he stated.

 

Maqsood Ismail, Managing Director of Bisconni Middle East Manufacturing said: "We are thankful to Kezad, Abu Dhabi and the UAE authorities for their cooperation, expeditious approval of our projects, and proactive support in setting up our business in Abu Dhabi."

 

"We look forward to an exciting chapter in our international expansion and growth," he added.-TradeArabia News Service

EDGE, one of the world's leading advanced technology companies and defence groups, has announced the signing of a strategic letter of intent with the Brazilian Navy, through the Navy's Weapons Systems Directorate, detailing the joint development of anti-drone systems. 

 

The next phase will involve establishing a joint working group, comprising technical experts from both parties, to advance the established partnership.

 

The objective of this cooperation is to develop and deploy counter-drone systems tailored to naval defence needs, with a focus on autonomous surface and aerial technologies, said EDGE in a statement. 

 

These systems will incorporate advanced sensors, such as radars and electro-optical technologies, combined with signal jamming capabilities to effectively neutralise threats from autonomous air and surface vehicles, it stated.

 

The document was signed at LAAD Defence & Security 2025, currently being held at the Riocentro Exhibition & Convention Center in Rio de Janeiro.

 

This milestone represents a continued commitment to strengthening technical, operational, and logistical cooperation with the Brazilian Navy, with a shared focus on advancing sophisticated anti-drone systems for naval applications.-TradeArabia News Service

Automechanika Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s leading regional trade show for the automotive aftermarket industry, has confirmed over 50 high-profile expert speakers at the event who will take to the Automechanika Academy stage, highlighting the event’s role in shaping the future of Saudi automotive aftermarket sector.

 

Taking place from 28-30 April at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC), the seventh edition of the sold-out exhibition will showcase a range of sessions as part of its conference offering, addressing how Saudi Arabia is taking strides to localise production and focusing focuses on becoming a regional automotive manufacturing and aftermarket hub.

 

According to research by Statista, Saudi Arabia accounts for nearly 50% of the region’s car sales, with over 600,000 new vehicles registered annually, resulting in a booming aftermarket sector. 

 

With the automotive industry being crucial to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the country aims to produce 700,000 vehicles as part of its economic diversification strategy.

 

Following the success of the 2024 edition, Automechanika Academy will deliver cutting-edge insights and facilitate knowledge exchange across the automotive ecosystem. 

 

The three-day conference will bring together government stakeholders, aftermarket leaders, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Electric Vehicle (EV) innovators, and supply chain strategists to address the sector’s most pressing themes.